Vital Signs: Independent Living

Vital Signs: Independent Living focuses on some of the challenges faced by older adults, and the need to assist them in remaining independent for as long as possible.  

For decades, researchers have forecasted the inevitable challenges that will face our nation as the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age. Among other concerns are independent living options, limited incomes, available funds in the Social Security program, health status, the cost and availability of healthcare services, and changes in workforce dynamics as the generation retires. 
The first of the Baby Boomer generation turned 65 in 2010. In Oklahoma, that translates to one in eight individuals now at age 65 or older, with over half of those Oklahomans living with some form of disability. Now no longer a forecasted future but instead a current reality, we must respond to this population’s growing needs, as aging is a circumstance we are all guaranteed to face – both as individuals and as supportive family members.

In this issue, we have attempted to address some of the challenges older adults must consider in order to live and thrive independently as long as possible. Undoubtedly, there will come a day when we, or those we care for, will need the information featured in this Vital Signs. With that in mind, we hope the following information will be used as a tool by everyone, especially those members of our community on the verge of retirement and the family members who care for them.

Read Vital Signs: Independent Living