In 2011, in communities across the country, the leading edge of the Baby Boom generation reached age 65. By 2030, more than 70 million Americans—twice the number in 2000—will be 65 and older. At that time, older adults will comprise nearly one in five Americans.

Due to the financial consequences from the Great Recession, many U.S. communities have been unable to make significant progress in preparing to meet the needs of the country’s rapidly aging population. The Maturing of America - Communities Moving Forward for an Aging Population, a follow-up to an extensive survey conducted in 2005, reveals that, at best, communities have managed to maintain the status quo for the past six years due to the economy and decline in local government budgets.

The report, which was released by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) and funded by the MetLife Foundation, also reveals that important advances have been made despite these challenges, including increased support for older adults during disasters; growth of in-home support services; greater support for advanced education and retooling for the workforce; and expanded volunteer opportunities.

However, with millions of Baby Boomers reaching retirement age every month, these advancements are nowhere near the level of progress that has to be made to ensure that communities are livable for people of all ages. Local governments identified three top challenges their communities face in meeting the needs of or planning for older adults. While responses varied, the challenges most often cited were financial/funding shortages, transportation and housing. This lineup contrasts with the top three identified challenges in 2005, which were, in the following order, housing, financial issues and various health issues.

Based on ICMA survey research, The Maturing of America -Communities Moving Forward for an Aging Population reveals that, at best, communities have managed to maintain the status quo for the past six years due to the Great Recession. The report, released by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), also notes that important advances have been made despite these challenges; however, with millions of Baby Boomers reaching retirement age every month, these advancements are nowhere near the level of progress that has to be made to ensure that communities are livable for people of all ages.