With the population of those 65 and over expected to double over the next 30 years, the topic of seniors and how they live continues to pop up. The February Health Forum of West Michigan will discuss “Aging in Place”. The idea is for seniors to live at home longer and with ease.
“Last year the census bureau released a report that sets us up for this topic. Our 65 and over population is expected to double in the next 3 decades. Aging in place is going to be one of the options for that growing population.”
Diane Dykstra is with the Vice Provost for Health’s office at Grand Valley State University. She says their office along with, are hosting “Aging In Place”, as part of the February Health forum. The goal is to help senior citizens “age in place” longer and with success.
“Aging in place” refers to supporting the ability of our elderly to remain in their homes as long as is possible and practical. Our baby boomer generation has been working as caregivers and now they’re moving into this, segment of the population where they’re going to have to make these decisions for themselves.”
Dykstra says there are a range of options that will be discussed and their panel will provide insight and open doors to resources. Panelists include participants from the state to local agencies:
“We’re going to start with a statewide view. We have Richard Kline coming in, he’s going to talk about the overall statistics of the state. And then talk about his agency’s role in addressing the needs of our seniors.”
Dr. Iris Boettcher, one of the leading geriatric physicians will also be headlining the group, providing insight about the medical aspects and considerations such as advance care planning.
The event takes place Friday at the Pew Campus DeVos center in the Loosemoore auditorium from 8 am to 9:30. It is free and open to the public. Dykstra does recommend pre registering and arriving early as they are expecting a large crowd. She says you can get more information at their website at GVSU.EDU/myperc and select the health forum option.
