Retirement News : Seniors : TOP THREE SENIORS' CONCERNS IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

TOP THREE SENIORS' CONCERNS IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Date Added: 29-03-2005

A recent survey of "older adults" living in Contra Costa County shows housing, healthcare, and transportation are the top three issues as the Baby Boomers reach retirement age, according to a local group concerned with aging issues.

The group, Contra Costa for Every Generation, conducted the AdvantAge Initiative phone survey between last December and January of this year.

The survey is reportedly the initial step in a process to prepare the county to accommodate a population of residents age 65 and older - a population expected to double in the next 25 years, according to the organization.

"Contra Costa for Every Generation is the first large-scale effort in this county to address the challenges seniors face moving ahead, and to fully recognize the contributions they can make if we take steps now to ensure our communities become better places to age," planning committee member Bob Schroder said.

At least 25 percent of those surveyed reported they will struggle to stay in their current home as they age, according to a statement by the organization.

Another 25 percent are saying public transportation in the county is problematic. The survey also reports that nearly 5,600 seniors cannot afford crucial healthcare, including prescription drugs and follow-up appointments.

The survey found that older adults in Contra Costa County are living comparatively as well as others in their age bracket across the nation, the statement reported.

However, older residents living in the eastern and western regions of Contra Costa County, older African-American county residents and those in poor health or living in poverty seem to be the most vulnerable segments of the older population, according to the statement.

http://www2.cbs5.com/localwire/localfsnews/bcn/2005/03/27/n/HeadlineNews/SENIOR-SURVEY/resources_bcn_html