Presenters: Pat Darlington, Kay Stewart and John Harned
Oklahoma County has more than 110,000 citizens over the age of 60 and local organizations and country government recently stepped up to support and provide options to their large elder population. This week, the United Way of Central Oklahoma, AARP Oklahoma, the Oklahoma State Homebuilders Association and the Oklahoma County Government sponsored a Senior Summit to provide information, knowledge and options to more than 100 seniors in attendance.
By all accounts, it was a great success. The feedback provided by those seniors clearly indicated that living in a home of their own choosing was at the top of the list.
Break out sessions with the seniors gave the organization leaders great feedback on what might be on their minds and what just might be needed to take care of this significant group of Oklahomans. While concerns about the deterioration of local neighborhoods, home maintenance and public transportation were clearly indicated, the majority also stated that being in their own home was top of mind, especially if certain modifications could be made that would increase the level of comfort, security and safety. Wider doors, bathroom safety, energy efficiency and elevating dishwashers were options the seniors stated would be in their list of preferences.
By all accounts, it was a great success. The feedback provided by those seniors clearly indicated that living in a home of their own choosing was at the top of the list.
Break out sessions with the seniors gave the organization leaders great feedback on what might be on their minds and what just might be needed to take care of this significant group of Oklahomans. While concerns about the deterioration of local neighborhoods, home maintenance and public transportation were clearly indicated, the majority also stated that being in their own home was top of mind, especially if certain modifications could be made that would increase the level of comfort, security and safety. Wider doors, bathroom safety, energy efficiency and elevating dishwashers were options the seniors stated would be in their list of preferences.
Christi Jernigan and Blair Schoeb
Hosted by Ray Vaughn, Chair of the Board of Oklahoma County Commissioners, several speakers offered a variety of housing and home environments, from assisted living to co-housing to updating a home for a lifetime. Kudos go to Blair Schoeb, Senior Vice President at United Way of Central Oklahoma, Mike Means, the executive director of the OK State Home Builders Association, Sean Voskuhl, the State Director of AARP Oklahoma and Christi Jernigan, the Director of Oklahoma County Social Services for all the hard work they put forth to organize this event.
Also in attendance during an afternoon session were business, professional and tradespeople including homebuilders, developers, Realtors, physical therapists and bankers, all who were interested in the business opportunity created by the 73 million baby boomers who are looking for options in their later lives.
Outcomes from the summit will include a report to the participating organizations that will indicate the services and resources seniors may need in choosing the type of housing that is right for them.
A special shout out go to hosts, Blair and Christi for inviting Michael Thomas, FASID to participate in the event and for making his return trip to Central Oklahoma such a great success. ;-)
Also in attendance during an afternoon session were business, professional and tradespeople including homebuilders, developers, Realtors, physical therapists and bankers, all who were interested in the business opportunity created by the 73 million baby boomers who are looking for options in their later lives.
Outcomes from the summit will include a report to the participating organizations that will indicate the services and resources seniors may need in choosing the type of housing that is right for them.
A special shout out go to hosts, Blair and Christi for inviting Michael Thomas, FASID to participate in the event and for making his return trip to Central Oklahoma such a great success. ;-)
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