There’s a lot to unpack in the full report. Here’s a breakdown of the key stats.
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Affordable Housing
Social Isolation
Health Care Navigation
Affordable Housing
I would like to see more affordable housing options. For the most part, the housing available is primarily for middle and higher-income people.
Response from the 2019 Senior Community Needs Survey
By 2024, adults 65 and older are projected to account for nearly 25% of the total population in Augusta and Rockingham Counties, but access to affordable housing is declining. When seniors pay more than 30% of their monthly income on housing, they are forced to choose between paying rent or paying for medicine, doctors’ appointments, food, or transportation.
Featured Projects Addressing Affordable Housing
Social Isolation
Have you ever been in a crowded room and feel like you are all alone? I do!
Response from the 2019 Senior Community Needs Survey.
Key informants and caregivers both see social isolation as a most-pressing issue. Seniors in our community who face isolation—from friends, family, loved ones, and community groups—may be at greater risk for illness. Medicare spends an average of $1,608 more a year on those with limited social connections compared to those who are more socially active. Further, research has identified a strong link between social isolation and dementia.
This isolation is compounded by transportation issues. Seniors unable to secure rides are far more likely to experience isolation. 66% of surveyed respondents state that public transportation is unavailable to reach critical destinations such as health centers, grocery stores, banks, and senior centers.
Featured Projects Addressing Social Isolation
Health Care Navigation
I only have Medicare so it limits the services I can access and I guess I was surprised to learn all the things it doesn’t cover. It’s sad sometimes that as you get older you are told life gets better but it really doesn’t — you need medicine and have other health needs that you simply can’t afford to meet.
Response from the 2019 Senior Community Needs Survey.
Community respondents report that health care navigation is the second-most common barrier preventing access to care. Augusta and Rockingham Counties face crucial shortages of health care providers. Beyond just shortages, seniors in our community are left at the mercy of a complex bureaucracy that creates significant friction when trying to access care. Further research indicates a correlation between quality of care and the determination and ability of a patient to navigate the system.
Featured Projects Addressing Health Care Navigation
No projects yet! Have an idea? Share it with the Valley Senior Success Coalition.
Download the Key Findings Summary