Caring for Elderly
& Disabled

Understanding the needs of the elderly and providing services to meet those needs are becoming recognized as paramount social priorities in a society characterized by a rapidly escalating elderly population.

 

Washington State:

 

The segment of senior citizens aged 60 years and older is the most rapidly growing portion of our population both nationwide and in the State of Washington, according to the Washington State Department of Health and Human Services.

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The Washington State Standard reports that by 2035, the U.S. will have more people over the age of 65 than under the age of 18, a first in the nation’s history. Recent census data suggests that the U.S. is short of aging-ready homes, with just 40% of the country’s housing considered accessible enough to meet the basic needs of older adults. Organizations such as AARP are lobbying state by state for two housing approaches: the development of so-called middle housing such as duplexes, triplexes and townhomes, and the allowance of accessory dwelling units, often known as granny flats or in-law suites. Regardless of our past priorities as northwest communities, seniors and disabled supports must expand now to accommodate the coming societal changes. 

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Alaska State:

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According to the Alaskan Commission on aging, "Alaska’s 70+ population increased by 97% between April 2010 and July of 2022. Alaskan seniors have a higher mortality rate due to causes linked to behavioral health conditions. Mortality rates for senior suicide, chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, fatal falls, and alcohol- induced deaths are higher for the Alaska senior population than national averages. These figures suggest that behavioral health programs targeted to seniors with depression, other mental illness, and substance abuse problems could have a positive impact on the quality of life for older Alaskans." Our elderly deserve to be supported and cared for with dignity. 

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In addition, Seniors make up 22% of extreme low-income housing in Alaska, with disabled members of our community filling 24%. That means that just under half of the Alaskan community that lives in extreme poverty are disabled or elderly according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. 

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Impact 907 supports projects and initiatives that provide programs, services, and increased housing access for adults 65+ living in Alaska and the Northwest.