The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging recently released a report on local government programs and services for older Americans. This survey, administered by ICMA, and report, The Maturing of America – Communities Preparing for the Baby Boomers, follows up on initial research conducted in 2005. 

In spite of a recession, decreasing revenues from property and sales taxes, and higher than usual unemployment, local governments have generally maintained the same level of programs and services for older adults as they reported in 2005. 

There have been significant changes in local governments’ economic condition between 2005 and 2010:

• In 2005, 67% experienced some economic growth; in 2010, 42% experienced some growth—difference of 25 percentage points.
• In 2005, 11% experienced some economic decline; in 2010, 30% experienced some decline.
• Financial concerns were identified by the highest number of respondents in 2010, compared with housing identified as the top concern in 2005.

Nonetheless, in instances in which the questions are identical in the two surveys, the percentages making the service or program available remain relatively stable, with these exceptions:

• The percentage reporting specialized training for public safety/emergency staff in dealing with older adults has increased from 24% in 2005 to 59% in 2010.
• The percentage reporting that there are discounts for older adults who want to take classes at local colleges/universities has increased from 45% in 2005 to 53% in 2010.
• In home support services has increased from 71% in 2005 to 77% in 2010.
• Although the questions changed slightly, the percentage reporting volunteer opportunities for older adults has increased from 66% in 2005 to 80% in 2010. The difference in the question is that 2005 asked about civic engagement opportunities as well and included “all adults.” In 2010 the question is about only volunteer opportunities.
• Property tax relief for older adults on limited incomes shows a noticeable decrease in availability. In 2005, 72% reported this program; in 2010, only 54% reported it. 
• In most instances, the larger the population group of the reporting local governments, the higher the percentage reporting availability of a program.