With the population of adults over 65 expected to nearly double by 2030, more assisted-living facilities are cropping up across the country. This subject was addressed in an article on an online Michigan news service, MLive.com.
As baby boomers enter their golden years, assisted-living facilities in Jackson County, Michigan are expanding and growing to meet the need. “It’s not Jackson; it’s nationwide. We’re just trying to keep up with what has to happen,” said Anne Chilcote, owner of Choice Connections, a referral service that provides a variety of living options for senior citizens.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, assisted living is designed for seniors who want to live in a community setting but enjoy services such as help with medications, housekeeping, laundry, and personal care.
Ganton Retirement Centers has nine facilities in Michigan. The number of residents at the centers has doubled in the last ten years. In 2008, Michigan’s population was about 10 million, with about 13 percent of adults aged 65 and over. By 2030, Michigan’s population is expected to reach 10.7 million, with 19.5 percent of adults aged 65 and older.
Although the article highlighted the increase in the number of assisted-living facilities in Michigan, the numbers also reflect the aging population across the nation. It’s a trend that we are sure to keep an eye on in the future.