The Central Florida Aging in Place Chapter (National Aging in Place Council- NAIPC) in conjunction with the Remodeler’s Council of the Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando, was proud to present "A Step Ahead: Central Florida’s Vision for Aging in Place." The 2nd Annual Aging in Place Community Event is the result of a unique alliance between the healthcare and building industries in a continued effort to promote education on universal design and livable communities for seniors.
The event was held at the HBA of Metro Orlando during National Aging in Place Week 2009 as declared by Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty. Florida State Senator Andy Gardiner read the proclamation to begin an educational day filled with facts about baby boomers, the needs of seniors and how housing and community development will have to change in order to meet the demands of a retirement generation that is and will continue living active lifestyles.
"There is a clear majority of Central Floridians that want to remain in their homes for as long as possible, but there still exists a lack of awareness of the services in the community that promote longevity and independence in the home," says Carolyn Sithong, OT, CAPS and founder of the Central Florida Aging in Place Chapter. "Builders and healthcare workers must work together to promote safe and accessible homes."
Keynote speaker, Dr. William Mann, OTR, Ph.D., University of Florida, emphasized that the goal is to structure the physical environment so people can take care of themselves as they get older, rather than having to be taken care of by others. Pete Sechler, RLA/AICP, with Glatting Jackson, added that sound urban planning helps you "maximize your ability to independently manage your environment and engage your community." Another presenter, Jack Bowersox, Manager, Life Wellness Communities Development Company, noted that ADA standards for construction are not enough and do not specifically address the needs of older people. Universal design encompasses much more than ADA requirements and works for people of all ages.
Orlando Health was one of the many sponsors of the event and helped to educate builders on how healthcare is moving more and more out of the hospitals and into the home setting. This information was important for HBA member Monarcha Marcet, president of Adventure in Building, Inc., "I came away from this community event realizing that Builders and especially Remodelers are in a unique position to help aging homeowners remain in their homes by implementing modifications and improvements which will meet each individuals need for accessibility".
In addition to Builders, Remodelers and Certified Aging in Place Specialists, the audience was filled with city planners, government officials, architects, therapists, nurses, senior advocates, educators and many others who are passionate about making Central Florida a community for a lifetime inside and outside of the home environment.