Community fo raLifet ime Columbia As sociatio n’s Compreh ens ive Plan for Se rving t he Older Ad ult Commu nity Te ch nic al Appe ndix MAY 2014
Table of Contents – Technical Appendix
A. Demographic Trends B. Howard County Health Survey Summary C. Mason‐Dixon Columbia Older Adult Survey D. Small Group Discussion Input E. Public Meetings Input F. Leadership Howard County Community Impact Project G. Senior 50+EXPO Survey Results, 2012, 2013 H. CA Older Adult Services, Programs and Facilities Provided I. CA Membership Information J. CA Older Adult Marketing and Communication Strategies K. Howard County and Other Services, Programs and Facilities L. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) Analysis M. Criteria for Successful Aging Cities, Milken Institute, July 2012 N. Older Adult Plan Work Team ‐ Charter
Appendix A
Context for Planning – Demographic and Other Related Trends
Context for Planning – Demographic and Other Related Trends
INTRODUCTION This appendix provides an overview of the older adult population in Columbia, based on information from the United States Bureau of the Census as well as other sources as noted. Population and population by age cohort forecasts for Howard County are included here as provided by Maryland Department of Planning by its cohort projection model. To gain a better understanding of how Columbia and Howard County compare to national trends, information from a national demographic statistics report entitled “The Next Four Decades, The Older Population in the United States: 2010 to 2050,” are referenced. Demographic characteristics addressed include population by age and gender, median age, older adult population by Columbia village, and household and housing unit characteristics. Projections are provided for Howard County and the nation. The write‐up also includes a discussion of disability status based on data from the American Community Survey.
POPULATION BY AGE AND GENDER In 2010, 11 percent of Columbia’s population consisted of those at or above traditional retirement age (those 65 years old and above). Howard County’s rate was similar at 10 percent and close to the national rate of 13 percent. In addition, those approaching retirement, the 55 to 64 years old segment, accounted for 13 percent of Columbia’s population as compared to approximately 12 percent for Howard County and the U.S. Together, these older adults (aged 55 years and over) accounted for approximately one‐quarter of Columbia’s population (24.1 percent). Figure A‐1 shows the distribution of Columbia, Howard County and US residents by age grouping in 2010. It is also important to highlight that while Columbia’s older population is growing, the population at the other end of the age spectrum is also significant with more than one quarter (26.3 percent) of the total population comprised of children and youth below the age of 19. Figure A‐2 shows the 2010 age distribution for Columbia and Howard County. Columbia Association strives to serve all of these age segments. Population forecasts for Howard County (state‐prepared forecasts have not been produced for sub‐ county areas such as Columbia), find that the proportion of the population 55 years and older will increase rapidly between 2010 and 2020; growing by 47 percent (See figures A‐3 and A‐4). Looking farther out into the future, the portion of the Howard County population 55 years and older is forecast to increase by 87 percent over 2010 numbers by 2040. The largest absolute growth is projected for the 75 to 84 age category.
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Figure A‐1: Population by Age and Gender, 2010, Columbiia, Howard County and the United States
Columbia Howard County United States Population (2010) Population (2010) Population (2010) All Ages 90,316 100% 287,085 100% 308,745,538 100% Under 5 5,725 6% 17,363 6% 20,201,362 7% 5 to 19 17,703 20% 63,360 22% 63,066,194 20% 20 to 34 17,970 20% 50,088 17% 62,649,947 20% 35 to 44 13,141 15% 42,873 15% 41,070,606 13% 45 to 54 14,013 16% 49,585 17% 45,006,716 15% 55 to 64 11,725 13% 34,771 12% 36,482,729 12% 65 to 74 6,244 7% 17,616 6% 21,713,429 7% 75 to 84 2,607 3% 8,277 3% 13,061,122 4% 85 + 1,186 1% 3152 1% 5,493,433 2%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census of Population and Housing, 2010, Summary File 1
Figure A‐2: Age Distribution for Columbia and Howard County (2010)
Source: US Census Bureau, Census of Population and Housing, 2010, Summary File 1
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Figure A‐3: Age Distribution Change for Howard County (2010‐2040)
2010 to 2040 Age 2010 2020 2030 2040 Growth % Change 0-4 17,363 18,964 21,254 18,513 1,150 7% 5-19 63,360 63,187 64,333 63,156 (204) 0% 20-44 92,961 101,791 106,526 101,809 8,848 10% 45-54 49,585 43,612 42,026 46,984 (2,601) -5% 55-64 34,771 45,114 40,179 38,942 4,171 12% 65-74 17,616 29,624 38,287 35,382 17,766 101% 75-84 8,277 14,502 23,875 31,319 23,042 278% 85+ 3,152 4,559 8,036 13,995 10,843 344% TOTAL 287,085 321,353 343,349 350,100 63,015 22% 0-46%6%6%5% 5-19 22% 20% 19% 18% 20-44 32% 32% 31% 29% 45-54 17% 14% 12% 13% 55-64 12% 14% 12% 11% 65-74 6% 9% 11% 10% 75-84 3% 5% 7% 9% 85+ 1% 1% 2% 4% TOTAL 100% 100% 100% 100%
Source: Maryland Department of Planning
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Figure A‐4: Age Distribution Change for Howard County (2010‐20400)
Source: Maryland Department of Planning
MEDIAN AGE
In 2010, the median age of Columbia’s residents was 37.9 years. This was very close to the median for Maryland which was 38.0 years, and the national median of 37.2 years of age. Most of the villages had median ages within a year, plus or minus, of Columbia’s value. There were some exceptions. Oakland Mills had the lowest median age, 35.1, while Town Center and Wilde Lake had the highest median ages, 40.3 and 41.8 years, respectively.
OLDER ADULT POPULATION BY VILLAGE
While those aged 65 years and over accounted for 11.1 percent of the total Columbia populatiion in 2010, there were significant differences by village. River Hill, Columbia’s last village to develop, had a high concentration of children and the smallest portion of its population as older adults, only 4.0 percent. On the other hand, Wilde Lake, Columbia’s first village, and Town Center stood out with 19.5 and 21.3 percent of residents respectively in the older adults’ cohort. These were the only two villages higher than the national average for the 65 years and older of 13 percent. Figure A‐5 shows proportions of households 65 years and over by village.
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Figure A‐5: Percent of Population 65+ Years in Columbia Villages
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PROJECTIONS – HOWARD COUNTY POPULATION BY AGE, 2010 TO 2040; NATIONAL POPULATION BY AGE 2010 TO 2040 In 2010, 10 percent of the Howard County population was 65 years or more (See Figure A‐6), which is very close to the Columbia percentage of 11 percent. By 2040, the proportion of those aged 65 years and above in Howard County is expected to rise to 23 percent of the total population, which is slightly more than the national projection of 20 percent of the total population (See Figure A‐7 and A‐8). This is also equal to the projected proportion (23 percent) for children aged 19 years and under. While the proportions of the population are projected to be similar, the 65 to 74, 75 to 84 and 85 years and over cohorts are forecast to have the largest increase of all the age cohorts. On the other hand, the 45 to 54 year age cohort is expected to decrease during the 2010 to 2040 forecasting period, by approximately 2,600, or a decrease of five percent.
Figure A‐6: Howard County Population by Age, 2010 to 2040
2010 to 2040 Age20002010202020302040Growth% Change 0-4 18,248 17,363 18,964 21,254 18,513 1,150 7% 5-19 55,837 63,360 63,187 64,333 63,156 (204) 0% 20-44 96,212 92,961 101,791 106,526 101,809 8,848 10% 45-54 38,322 49,585 43,612 42,026 46,984 (2,601) -5% 55-64 20,755 34,771 45,114 40,179 38,942 4,171 12% 65-74 10,370 17,616 29,624 38,287 35,382 17,766 101% 75-84 5,955 8,277 14,502 23,875 31,319 23,042 278% 85+ 2,143 3,152 4,559 8,036 13,995 10,843 344% TOTAL 247,842 287,085 321,353 343,349 350,100 63,015 22% 0-47%6%6%6%5% 5-19 23% 22% 20% 19% 18% 20-44 39% 32% 32% 31% 29% 45-54 15% 17% 14% 12% 13% 55-64 8% 12% 14% 12% 11% 65-74 4% 6% 9% 11% 10% 75-84 2% 3% 5% 7% 9% 85+ 1% 1% 1% 2% 4% TOTAL 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
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Figure A‐7: National Population Prrojections by Age
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Figure A‐8: National Population Prrojections by Age
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Figure A‐9 shows Howard County population by age trends from 1970 throough 2010 and forecasts to 2040. Figure A‐9: Howard County Population by Age, 19770 to 2040
The Howard County’s population grew rapidly from 1960 through 2000 and then more modestly to 2010. The county’s population is projected to continue to increase in the future from 287,085 in 2010 to 350,100 in 2040 (an increase of approximately 22 percent), as shown in Fiigure A‐10. Figure A‐10: Howard County Population Growth
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2010 HOUSEHOLDS It is worth noting that one of every five (20.8 percent) households included one or more persons 65 years old and over. In fact, eight percent of Columbia’s households, representing 2,874 individuals, were those 65 or older living alone. This information is shown in Figures A‐11 and A‐12. Conversely, more than 28,300 or nearly 80 percent of Columbia households have no persons 65 years or more present. Of these households, approximately 20 percent are comprised of one person. Figure A‐11 ‐ Columbia Households by Presence of People 65+ Years, Household Type and Size
Pct. Of Number Total Total Households: 35,812 100.0% One or more people 65 years and over: 7,459 20.8% 1-person household 2,874 8.0% 2-or-more-person household: 4,585 12.8% Family households 4,389 12.3% Nonfamily households 196 0.5% No people 65 years and over: 28,352 79.2% 1-person household 6,988 19.5% 2-or-more-person household: 21,364 59.7% Family households 19,380 54.1% Nonfamily households 1,984 5.5%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census of Population and Housing, 2010,Summary File 1
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Figure A‐12 – Household Type, 2010, Columbia
2010 OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS Columbia’s homeowners are primarily between the ages of 35 and 64, acccounting for 46.8 percent of all owner‐occupied households in the community. The same age cohorts had the highest percentage of homeownership nationally, except they accounted for a much higher 62.5 percent of owner‐occupied housing units. In Columbia, 12.8 percent of homeowners were age 65 or over, as shown in Figures A‐13 and A‐14. Comparatively, the national percentage for homeowners 65 years and older was 26.3 percent in 2010. Renters were more noticeably concentrated in the 25 to 34, 35 to 44 aand 45 to 54 householder age cohorts for both Columbia and the nation. They accounted for over two‐thirds of all renters and nearly 22 percent of all occupied units in Columbia and the nation. Those 655 and over were a small group among the renters, accounting for five percent of all occupied units. This number is much larger on a national level, where older adults ages 65 years and older accounted for 14.3 percent of all renters. Overall, 71 percent of Columbia’s older adult householders owned their own homes in 2010 as compared to 67.6 percent for all age groups in Columbia. The comparable figure for the nation overall was 66.9 percent.
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Figure A‐13 ‐ Occupied Housing Units – Tenure by Age of Householder, Columbia 2010
Pct. Of Number Total Total Occupied Housi ng Units: 35,812 100.0% Owner Occupied 24,199 67.6% 15 to 24 years 127 0.4% 25 to 34 years 2,739 7.6% 35 to 44 years 4,682 13.1% 45 to 54 years 6,187 17.3% 55 to 64 years 5,870 16.4% 65 to 74 years 3,275 9.1% 75 to 84 years 1,078 3.0% 85 years and over 240 0.7% Renter Occupied 11,613 32.4% 15 to 24 years 806 2.3% 25 to 34 years 3,272 9.1% 35 to 44 years 2,497 7.0% 45 to 54 years 2,034 5.7% 55 to 64 years 1,154 3.2% 65 to 74 years 655 1.8% 75 to 84 years 649 1.8% 85 years and over 546 1.5%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census of Population and Housing, 2010, Summary File 1
Figure A‐14: Occupied Housing Units by Age off Householder, 2010, Columbia
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DISABILITY CHARACTERISTICS The term disability is used to describe the presence of an impairment, an activity limitation and/or participation restrictions. Figure A‐15 shows disability characteristics for Columbia. The estimate of disability is eight percent of the population. This compares to approximately 10 percent for the State of Maryland and 12 percent at the national level. The incidence of disability increases with age; 28.7 percent of those 65 years and over in Columbia are estimated to have a disability. This is a lower rate than the rate for Marylanders (approximately 34 percent) and the nation (almost 37 percent). The term disability includes those with any of the following disabilities: hearing, vision, cognitive, learning, ambulatory, self‐care or independent living disability.
Table A‐15: Disability Status
Disability Status Percent Percent with a Disability 8.0% Percent under 18 years with a Disability 2.4% Percent 19‐64 years with a Disability 6.3% Percent 65 years and over with a Disability 28.7%
Source: ACS 2009‐2011, 3‐year estimates, Columbia CDP Columbia Association, 2012
Disability characteristics are available from the American Community Survey (ACS). However, because of the limitations of sample size, reliable information is not available at the block or block group level used elsewhere in this report. In addition, there were changes in the methodology for tabulating disability data over within the last several years, so that a comparable data set is not available for this Columbia analysis using the same time period and geography as used for the rest of the report. However, disability data is available for the three-year estimates (2009-2011) from ACS for the Census Designated Place called Columbia.
For the complete demographic profile of Columbia and its villages, please consult “Characteristics of Columbia, Maryland – a Demographic and Socio‐Economic Profile,” which is available at bit.ly/columbiacharacteristics.
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Appendix B
Howard County Health Survey Summary for Older Adults
Howard County Health Assessment Survey 2012 Summary
Methodology Older Adults The 2012 Howard County Health Assessment Survey (HCHAS) was 534 Residents commissioned by the Horizon Foundation, the Howard County Ages 50-64 & Health Department, Howard County General Hospital, and the 274 Residents Columbia Association. OpinionWorks, LLC provided the technical Ages 65+ aspects of the survey, including recommendations on the precise Completed the Survey wording of questions, population sampling, and telephone data Access to Affordable Health Care collection. Healthy Howard, Inc. assisted with the evaluation and Most older adults have health care coverage materials development of the survey results. The executive and are able to afford the cost of seeing a summary, fact sheets, and trainers’ guide, including GIS analysis doctor. About 82% of the time visits are conducted in the doctor's office and about and data visualization, were prepared by Simplicity Metrics. 6% of the time at an urgent care center. The Questions Chronic Diseases The survey’s sponsors together determined the questions that were There is some concern regarding the prevalence of chronic diseases in the older adult population. asked. As closely as possible, the survey approach, methodology, Thirty-five percent of residents age 50-64 and and questions were modeled after the Centers for Disease Control 59% of residents age 65 and older have been and Prevention’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System diagnosed with high blood pressure. Around half of the older adult population has high (BRFSS). This means that residents across the country have been cholesterol. A quarter of those age 65 and older asked many of the same questions, and results from national have had or have some form of cancer. As with studies may be effectively compared with Howard County results. the US as a whole, a significant number of older adults in Howard County are either overweight or obese (57% for ages 50-64 and 64% for ages 65+). Conclusions Lifestyle The 2012 Howard County Health Assessment Survey offers the The majority of older adults do not smoke, most in-depth data ever captured about how health behaviors and however 28% of those age 50-64 smoke either every day or on some days. Twenty one percent needs vary across different demographic groups in the area. The of older adults have health conditions requiring Howard County Health Assessment Survey will be repeated again the use of special equipment. The lack of in 2014, 2016, and 2018. The Howard County Health Department consumption of vegetables on a daily basis is significant. Less than 1/4 of older adults get the and partners will continue to work together to update information, US daily recommended amount of vegetables. conduct studies and ensure resources are focused where greatest While 85% of those age 50-64 and 85% of those need meets greatest opportunity to improve the health of all age 65+ participated in physical activities to improve their heart, only 50% of the time was the residents of Howard County. exercise enough to meet health recommendations. Only about 10% of adults age 65+ participated in recommended muscle building activities.
For further information, please contact Shawni Paraska, Columbia Association’s Copyright © 2013 Howard County Health Department Director Community Health Sustainability HowardCountyHealthSurvey.com at [email protected] or call 410-715-3128. www.howardcountyhealthsurvey.com Howard County Health Health and Aging Assessment Survey in Howard County
The population of older adults is growing, and this group is at high risk for LEGEND Yes No developing chronic disease. How are older adults in Howard County doing Ages: 50-64 in terms of access to care, chronic diseases and healthy lifestyles? 65+
ACCESS TO Have Could not see a Goes to doctor’s AFFORDABLE Health Care doctor in the past o ce when in need HEALTH CARE Coverage year due to cost of medical attention
94% 99% 6% 5% 82% 83%
CHRONIC DISEASES
Ages: Have high blood pressure Had a stroke Have Diabetes Type II, excludes gestational 50-64 35% 63% 3% 97% 10% 78% 65+ 59% 39% 4% 95% 20% 66%
Have high cholesterol Had cancer Overweight BMI between 25.0-29.99
50-64 47% 53% 11% 89% 33% 65+ 50% 48% 25% 75% 38%
Have angina or coronary Have COPD or other heart disease breathing condition Obese BMI 30.0+ 50-64 3% 96% 4% 96% 24% 65+ 11% 86% 9% 91% 26%
LIFESTYLE Have a health problem requiring The Columbia Association Do not the use of special (www.columbia smoke 71% 93% equipment association.org) o ers programs and classes for Smoke 16% older adults, with some days 9% 1% discounted membership rates for seniors (65+) Smoke 5% every day 19% 6%
Note: Numbers may not equal 100 percent because of rounding
For this survey, more than 2,000 Howard County residents answered questions about diet, health histories, access to care and health behaviors in 2012. These key facts will be used to meet health needs and improve the quality of life in Howard County.
Appendix C
Mason‐Dixon Columbia Older Adult Survey
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COLUMBIA OLDER ADULT SURVEY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CONDUCTED FOR COLUMBIA ASSOCIATION
SEPTEMBER 2013
Conducted By Mason-Dixon Polling & Research Washington, D.C. - (202) 548-2680
1 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
SURVEY METHODOLOGY 3
KEY FINDINGS 4
AGING IN COLUMBIA 5
SERVICES 9
PHYSICAL FITNESS 12
TRANSPORTATION 18
SOCIAL, ARTS & CULTURAL ACTIVITIES 22
COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION VILLAGE CENTERS 23
EMPLOYMENT & VOLUNTEERING 25
OVERALL SURVEY RESULTS 26
DEMOGRAPHICS 39
2 METHODOLOGY
This survey was commissioned by the Columbia Association in order to measure the use, satisfaction and future needs of older adult Columbia residents regarding the wide variety of programs and services provided by CA.
A total of 800 adult residents of Columbia (age 45+) were interviewed by telephone from
September 23 through October 3, 2013 by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research, Inc. of
Washington, D.C. Those interviewed were randomly selected, utilizing a cross-section of
Columbia telephone exchanges and a Columbia-matched cell phone list. Age quotas were assigned by Columbia Association.
The margin for error, according to standards customarily used by statisticians, is plus or minus
3.5 percentage points. This means that there is a 95 percent probability that the “true” figure would fall within that range if all adults in Columbia aged 45+ adults were surveyed. The margin for error is higher for any sub-group of the sample, such as an age or racial grouping.
3 KEY FINDINGS & HIGHLIGHTS
In most areas, there are clear divides between older adults who are under the age of 65 and those who are 65+.
About three out of five older adult residents indicated they planned to stay in Columbia as they grow older, however, about half of those under the age of 65 said they are inclined to leave – likely after they retire.
61% said they planned to stay in their current home as they aged and few reported issues with maintaining their current residence or the inability to find help.
Less than half of older adults have done any significant retirement planning.
Most older adults are satisfied with local programs and services and say it is relatively easy to get information about them
Older adults are physically active and exercise regularly. However, many Columbia Association fitness programs suited to older adults are not being heavily utilized
There is low awareness and usage among many targeted programs, such as the Senior Discount, “Six Class Pack”, and CA Time Banking.
An overwhelming majority of older adults are physically able to drive, drive themselves and place few restrictions on their driving. There is low demand for and low usage of mass transit.
Older adults are interested in a wide variety of cultural and entertainment activities. Movies, festivals, theatre performances and music concerts are by far the most popular. Their social lives generally revolve around church, friends and family.
The association Village Centers are not heavily used by older adults, as only about one-third visit them on a frequent basis. Few participate in most of the programs they offer, but the most popular are social and special events.
A significant 45% of older adults are volunteers, but only 2% use the Volunteer Center. Almost two-thirds are unaware that the Volunteer Center even exists.
4 AGING IN COLUMBIA
QUESTION: Which one of the following best describes your current view about growing older in Columbia: (ORDER ROTATED)
– I am generally inclined to stay in Columbia as I grow older
- I am likely to leave Columbia at some point
NOT STAY LEAVE SURE
SEPTEMBER 2013 61% 35% 4%
AGE: 45-54 45% 53% 2% 55-64 50% 43% 7% 65-74 80% 15% 5% 75+ 90% 9% 1%
SEX: MEN 58% 37% 5% WOMEN 65% 32% 3%
LENGTH OF RESIDENCE: <20 YEARS 55% 42% 3% 20+ YEARS 65% 31% 4%
Overall, 61% of older adults said they are generally inclined to stay in Columbia, while only 35% said they are likely to leave. However, current age is a significant factor.
Among those under the age of 65, residents are about equally split (47%-48%) over whether or not to stay, but among those 65 years or older 83% said they will stay – in other words they have already cast their lot. The potential loss of up to half of Columbia’s adults aged 45-64 (generally those currently in working households) could have major consequences within the community and should be taken into account by Columbia Association long-term planning.
Also of note, women and those who have lived in Columbia longest are more inclined to stay than men and those who have been in the community for less than 20 years.
5 QUESTION: As you get older, how likely are you to stay in your current home?
QUESTION: How much of a concern is aging in place in your current home?
LIKELY TO STAY CONCERN ABOUT AGING IN IN CURRENT HOME? CURRENT HOME?
NOT LITTLE YES NO SURE MAJOR MODERATE OR NONE
SEPTEMBER 2013 61% 36% 3% 10% 30% 60%
AGE: 45-54 44% 55% 1% 7% 19% 74% 55-64 53% 43% 4% 13% 32% 55% 65-74 75% 22% 3% 11% 31% 58% 75+ 87% 10% 3% 4% 53% 43%
SEX: MEN 65% 31% 4% 11% 25% 64% WOMEN 57% 41% 2% 8% 36% 56%
LENGTH OF RESIDENCE <20 YEARS 55% 42% 3% 6% 14% 80% 20+ YEARS 64% 33% 3% 12% 39% 49%
Among older adults, 61% said they are likely to stay in their current home, while 36% said they are not likely to do so as they age. Those aged 65 and older appear to be settled in, with 80% saying they will stay put. Those under 65 are more “up-in-the-air”, with about half (49%) indicating they are likely to stay in their current home and about half (49%) saying they are not likely to do so.
Relatively few older adults, in all age categories, said they have a “major concern” about aging in their current home. About half of those aged 75+ (53%) expressed “moderate concern”, but a significant majority (63%) in the other age categories said they had “little or no concern”.
6 QUESTION: How much have you planned for aging in place in your current home? Have you:
- Fully planned for aging in your home - Partially planned for aging in your home - Not planned yet for aging in your home - Do not plan to age in your home
DO NOT PLAN TO FULLY PARTIALLY NOT PLANNED AGE IN NOT PLANNED PLANNED YET HOUSE SURE
SEPTEMBER 2013 10% 31% 28% 27% 4%
AGE: 45-54 - 18% 33% 48% 1% 55-64 7% 26% 36% 26% 5% 65-74 19% 44% 21% 14% 2% 75+ 22% 47% 16% 5% 10%
SEX: MEN 13% 31% 23% 28% 5% WOMEN 8% 31% 34% 25% 2%
Less than half of older adults (41%) have at least partially planned for aging in their current home. Among those under the age of 65, a mere 25% have at least partially planned. On the other hand, 63% of those aged 65-74 and 69% of those 75+ have at least partially planned.
7 QUESTION: In the past year, have you had difficulty in maintaining the interior of your residence?
QUESTION: In the past year, have you had difficulty in maintaining the exterior of your residence or property?
QUESTION: If you were no longer able to maintain your residence or yard would you know where to get assistance?
MAINTAINING MAINTAINING KNOW WHERE TO INTERIOR EXTERIOR GET HELP YES NO YES NO YES NO
SEPTEMBER 2013 13% 87% 15% 85% 52% 48%
AGE: 45-54 10% 90% 17% 83% 44% 56% 55-64 15% 85% 19% 81% 52% 48% 65-74 13% 87% 15% 85% 54% 46% 75+ 14% 86% 3% 97% 67% 33%
Property maintenance does not appear to be a major issue. Over the past year, 87% said they have had no difficulty maintaining the interior of their residence and 85% reported no difficulty maintaining the exterior. There was little difference among age groups.
More than half (52%) said they knew where to get assistance once they were no longer able to maintain their residence or yard. Most significantly, 67% of those 75 years and older currently know where to get help.
8 SERVICES
QUESTION: How satisfied are you with the local programs and services that are offered to meet the needs of older adults? Are you very satisfied, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied or very dissatisfied?
QUESTION: How easy or difficult do you feel it is to find out which services and programs are available to meet the needs of older adults from the Howard County government? Is it very easy, somewhat easy, somewhat difficult or very difficult?
QUESTION: How easy or difficult do you feel it is to find out which services and programs are available to meet the needs of older adults from the Columbia Association? Is it very easy, somewhat easy, somewhat difficult or very difficult?
SATISFIED EASY FINDING W/LOCAL HOCO GOVT EASY FINDING PROGRAMS? PROGRAMS? CA PROGRAMS? YES NO DK YES NO DK YES NO DK
SEPTEMBER 2013 66% 11% 23% 62% 24% 14% 63% 27% 10%
AGE: 45-54 53% 5% 32% 53% 34% 13% 63% 27% 10% 55-64 51% 16% 23% 60% 23% 17% 59% 29% 12% 65-74 74% 9% 17% 73% 19% 8% 61% 30% 9% 75+ 69% 14% 17% 73% 10% 17% 73% 14% 13%
There appears to be general satisfaction with local programs designed to meet the needs of older adults. Overall, 66% reported a degree of satisfaction and only 11% said they had any level of dissatisfaction.
Most also say that it is rather easy to find programs available from both the Howard County government and the Columbia Association. Satisfaction and ease of finding programs was noticeably higher in among those aged 65 or older – the prime cohort of current users.
9 QUESTION: What is your primary source of information about programs and services for older adults?
PRIMARY INFO SOURCE FOR ADULT PROGRAMS & SERVICES ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
CA ACTIVITY GUIDE 24% 29% 21% 24% 22% COUNTY PUBLICATIONS 22% 13% 25% 27% 27% CA WEB SITE 21% 32% 22% 15% 9% HOCO AGENCY WEB SITES 6% 9% 7% 6% - SOCIAL MEDIA - - - - - OTHER 14% 6% 16% 18% 22% DON’T GET INFO 11% 11% 9% 10% 20%
The more traditional Columbia information sources – the CA Activity Guide and local publications – remain the two top sources of information for older adults regarding programs and services targeted at them. However, the CA web site garners a significant 21%.
But the use of the CA website declines with each age group. For those 45-54 it is the top source of information (32%) and for those 75+ it is the least utilized (9%). This pattern is transitory, and the web site will be increasingly utilized as those in the younger adult groups grow older. It is also worth noting that social media is not the primary information source for any of the adults in this survey.
10 QUESTION: The “Village in Howard” concept is to create an organization that coordinates services for seniors who want to continue living in their residences, but need help. The organization provides services such as yard work, home-delivered meals, legal assistance, transportation and social activities. Have you heard about the “Village in Howard” concept?
QUESTION: How likely are you to join and pay an annual fee to receive services from an organization like the “Village in Howard”?
HEARD OF “VILLAGE LIKELY TO JOIN & PAY FOR OF HOWARD” CONCEPT? SERVICES? YES NO YES NO NOT SURE
SEPTEMBER 2013 27% 73% 37% 55% 8%
AGE: 45-54 24% 74% 34% 59% 7% 55-64 21% 79% 36% 58% 6% 65-74 35% 65% 42% 48% 10% 75+ 35% 65% 38% 57% 5%
Only 27% had heard of the “Village of Howard” concept and only 37% indicated they would be likely to join and pay for its services.
Recognition was higher among those 65+ (35%), but the willingness to participate was not significantly greater.
11 PHYSICAL FITNESS
QUESTION: Over the past year, on average how often have you participated in exercise, sports, or fitness activities?
QUESTION: Over the past year, on average how many times per week did you do physical activities of exercise to strengthen your muscles?
PARTICIPATE IN EXERCISE, PARTICIPATE IN MUSCLE SPORTS OR FITNESS? STRENGTHENING EXERCISE? <1 1-2 3+ DO <1 1-2 3+ DO WEEK WEEK WEEK NOT WEEK WEEK WEEK NOT
SEPTEMBER 2013 11% 26% 45% 18% 18% 37% 21% 24%
AGE: 45-54 6% 30% 53% 11% 14% 54% 18% 14% 55-64 18% 26% 44% 12% 26% 32% 23% 19% 65-74 10% 22% 43% 25% 13% 28% 25% 34% 75+ 13% 25% 33% 29% 16% 29% 17% 38%
Participation in exercise decreases with age. Still, an impressive 62% of those aged 65 and older participate in exercise, sports or fitness at least once a week. A majority (51%) said they do muscle strengthening exercises at least once a week.
Walking and hiking is by far the most regular form of exercise among older adults.
12 QUESTION: I’m going to list exercise/wellness classes and programs CA offers. Please tell me your participation or interest in participating in each activity.
- Indoor Swimming?
- Water-Based Aerobic Aqua Fitness Classes?
INDOOR SWIMMING WATER AEROBIC CLASSES MIGHT MIGHT CURRENTLY IN NOT CURRENTLY IN NOT PARTICIPATE FUTURE LIKELY PARTICIPATE FUTURE LIKELY
SEPTEMBER 2013 10% 26% 64% 7% 34% 59%
AGE: 45-54 3% 28% 69% 9% 37% 54% 55-64 16% 28% 56% 4% 40% 56% 65-74 10% 26% 64% 8% 34% 58% 75+ 11% 21% 68% 11% 16% 73%
- Group Fitness Classes?
- Personal Training?
GROUP FITNESS CLASSES PERSONAL TRAINING MIGHT MIGHT CURRENTLY IN NOT CURRENTLY IN NOT PARTICIPATE FUTURE LIKELY PARTICIPATE FUTURE LIKELY
SEPTEMBER 2013 9% 40% 51% 4% 29% 67%
AGE: 45-54 10% 48% 42% 5% 33% 62% 55-64 11% 41% 48% 4% 32% 64% 65-74 8% 36% 56% 4% 23% 73% 75+ 5% 28% 67% 4% 23% 73%
Overall, Indoor Swimming, Water Aerobics, Group Fitness Classes and Personal Training have 10% participation or less. Those ages 65+ are less inclined to participate or consider participating in Group Fitness Classes. They are also less likely to consider Personal Training.
13 - Consultations for things like nutrition, pain, spinal health or acupuncture?
- Yoga or Pilates?
CONSULTATIONS YOGA OR PILATES MIGHT MIGHT CURRENTLY IN NOT CURRENTLY IN NOT PARTICIPATE FUTURE LIKELY PARTICIPATE FUTURE LIKELY
SEPTEMBER 2013 6% 38% 56% 9% 37% 54%
AGE: 45-54 10% 46% 44% 16% 44% 40% 55-64 2% 37% 61% 10% 44% 46% 65-74 7% 28% 65% 4% 28% 68% 75+ 3% 39% 58% 5% 20% 75%
- Other Special Programs?
- In the past year, have you used Columbia Association’s hot water therapy pool at the Athletic Club?
OTHER SPECIAL PROGRAMS USED THERAPY POOL? MIGHT CURRENTLY IN NOT PARTICIPATE FUTURE LIKELY YES NO
SEPTEMBER 2013 6% 50% 44% 18% 82%
AGE: 45-54 3% 47% 50% 24% 76% 55-64 6% 56% 38% 16% 84% 65-74 7% 57% 36% 15% 85% 75+ 8% 35% 57% 14% 86%
Only those 45-54 seem inclined to use or consider consultations. They are also more likely to have used the hot water therapy pool.
Yoga and Pilates, along with Special Programs, draw little interest from adults 75+. Those 65-74 are more open minded to considering Special Programs, but are also not terribly interested in Yoga and Pilates.
14 QUESTION: There are a number of places where you can participate in activities in Columbia. Within the last year, which one of these Columbia Association amenities have you used the most often?
USED MOST OFTEN ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
Supreme Sports Club 17% 27% 17% 9% 8% Pathways 13% 10% 14% 21% 5% Athletic Club 11% 5% 15% 11% 18% Village Assoc Centers 7% 10% 4% 9% 4% Columbia Gym 6% 8% 4% 7% 3% Indoor Pool 6% 9% 4% 2% 7% Outdoor Pool 4% 4% 4% 4% 3% Fairway Hills GC 3% 5% 2% 1% 3% Hobbit’s Glen GC 1% - - 1% 4% Outdoor Tennis - - - - - Indoor Tennis - - - - - Columbia Ice Rink - - - - - None 32% 22% 36% 35% 45%
The Supreme Sports Club is the most frequently used facility for older adults, but the highest concentration of users is aged 45-54 (27%), with those 55-64 also saying it is there most often used facility (17%). Only 9% of adults 65+ indicated the Supreme Sports Club is their top facility.
Among those 65-74 years of age, the Pathways draw the most use (21%).
Adults 75 and older have a high level of non-use (45%), but the Athletic Club (18%) has the most appeal to them.
15 QUESTION: If given the option, would you prefer to participate in programs and classes for older adults only, or programs and classes open to all?
OLDER OPEN NO WOULD NOT ADULTS ONLY TO ALL PREFERENCE PARTICIPATE NOT SURE
SEPTEMBER 2013 30% 55% 7% 8% -
AGE: 45-54 22% 63% 8% 7% - 55-64 21% 62% 8% 9% 1% 65-74 40% 48% 6% 5% 1% 75+ 45% 36% 2% 17% -
QUESTION: Do you prefer to exercise at a large multi-recreational facility such as one of CA’s large fitness centers, a small specialized facility like a yoga studio or classes at a Village Community Center?
LARGE SMALL COMMUNITY NO WOULD NOT FACILITY FACILITY CENTER PREFERENCE NOT USE SURE
SEPTEMBER 2013 32% 18% 24% 8% 17% 1%
AGE: 45-54 35% 25% 23% 4% 13% - 55-64 45% 13% 13% 11% 18% - 65-74 23% 17% 28% 14% 16% 2% 75+ 20% 13% 39% 1% 26% 1%
Adults under the age of 65 are more willing to participate in open class programs and to utilize large facilities. Those 65+ prefer facilities that are Village Community Center based and that are limited to older adults.
16 QUESTION: In the past year, have you used any non-Columbia Association fitness facilities?
QUESTION: Columbia Association offers a senior discount for membership to its recreational facilities. Are you aware of it and use it, aware of it but don’t use it, or not aware of it?
QUESTION: Columbia Association has a “Six Class Pass” program. Are you aware of it and use it, aware of it but don’t use it, or not aware of it?
USE NON-CA? SENIOR DISCOUNT “SIX CLASS PACK” AWARE AWARE AWARE DON’T NOT AWARE DON’T NOT YES NO USE USE AWARE USE USE AWARE
SEPTEMBER 2013 33% 67% 9% 37% 54% 1% 19% 80%
AGE: 45-54 38% 62% 4% 33% 63% - 13% 87% 55-64 34% 66% 6% 30% 64% - 17% 83% 65-74 29% 71% 14% 43% 43% 1% 23% 76% 75+ 28% 72% 12% 51% 37% 1% 34% 65%
One-third of older adults have used a non-Columbia Association fitness facility (33%). Non-CA facility use is higher among those under the age of 65.
More than half of older adults in Columbia (54%) are not even aware of the Senior Discount. This is particularly true among those under the age of 65. Even among those ages 65 and older, just 13% are currently using it.
The “Six Pack Class” is currently being used by a meager 1% of the older adult population. An overwhelming 80% have never even heard of it.
17 TRANSPORTATION
QUESTION: What is your primary means of transportation?
QUESTION: Are you physically able to drive?
PRIMARY TRANSPORTATION PHYSICALLY ABLE TO DRIVE? DRIVE CAR OTHER YES NO
SEPTEMBER 2013 90% 10% 96% 4%
AGE: 45-54 91% 9% 98% 2% 55-64 89% 11% 98% 2% 65-74 94% 6% 97% 3% 75+ 80% 20% 85% 15%
Among older adults, 90% said driving their car was their primary means of transportation. The other 10% were scattered amongst seven other different modes – none being statistically significant.
An overwhelming 96% said they are physically able to drive.
Only among those aged 75+ was there a drop off in driving and being physically able to drive. Among these oldest citizens, 20% did not primarily drive their own car and 15% are physically unable to do so.
18 QUESTION: In the past year, have you had any physical limitations on your ability to drive or personally placed limitations on your driving?
QUESTION: Do you have any of these limitations:
- Cannot or choose not to drive at night?
- Cannot or choose not to drive in bad weather?
- Cannot or choose not to drive long distance?
PLACED AVOID DO NOT DRIVE DO NOT LIMITS ON NIGHT IN BAD DRIVE LONG DRIVING? DRIVING? WEATHER? DISTANCE? YES NO YES NO YES NO YES NO
SEPT 2013 10% 90% 4% 96% 5% 95% 4% 96%
AGE: 45-54 8% 92% - 100% 5% 96% 1% 99% 55-64 9% 91% 1% 99% 2% 98% 5% 95% 65-74 11% 89% 8% 92% 7% 93% 5% 95% 75+ 15% 85% 13% 87% 12% 88% 10% 90%
QUESTION: Thinking ahead, if you were no longer able to drive at all, how big of a concern would that be for you? Would it be a:
FUTURE ABILITY TO DRIVE ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
MAJOR CONCERN 69% 76% 68% 74% 46% MODERATE CONCERN 21% 13% 24% 20% 33% NO CONCERN 10% 11% 8% 6% 21%
Among those who are able to drive, only 10% have placed limits on their driving. A very large majority of older adult drivers still drive at night (96%), drive in bad weather (95%), and drive long distance (96%).
Given their strong preference to drive themselves, it is not surprising that a strong majority of older adults (69%) stated that not being able to do so would be a “major concern”. Those 75+ differed from other adults, as only 46% said it would be a major concern and 21% said it would be of no concern.
19 QUESTION: Thinking ahead, if you were no longer able to drive a car at all, which one of the following would you most likely use to get to shopping, recreation, personal care, and medical appointments?
IF NO LONGER ABLE TO DRIVE ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
FAMILY & FRIENDS 50% 51% 49% 49% 51% PUBLIC TRANSIT 14% 14% 16% 12% 13% NEIGHBOR RIDE 10% 7% 9% 7% 14% TAXI 8% 9% 8% 16% 11% WALK 5% 4% 6% 4% 2% OTHER 5% 6% 3% 6% 4% NOT SURE 8% 9% 9% 6% 5%
QUESTION: I’m going to list several modes of transportation. Please tell me your current or future need for using each one.
- Neighbor Ride?
HOWARD TRANSIT NEIGHBOR RIDE CURRENTLY MIGHT IN NOT CURRENTLY MIGHT IN NOT USE FUTURE LIKELY USE FUTURE LIKELY
SEPTEMBER 2013 5% 40% 55% 1% 51% 48%
AGE: 45-54 9% 24% 67% - 41% 59% 55-64 3% 46% 51% - 52% 48% 65-74 1% 53% 46% 3% 54% 43% 75+ 7% 40% 53% 4% 62% 34%
20 - CA Senior Events Shuttle?
- Taxi?
CA SENIOR SUTTLE TAXI CURRENTLY MIGHT IN NOT CURRENTLY MIGHT IN NOT USE FUTURE LIKELY USE FUTURE LIKELY
SEPTEMBER 2013 - 50% 50% 6% 50% 44%
AGE: 45-54 - 46% 54% 10% 45% 45% 55-64 - 55% 45% 3% 60% 37% 65-74 - 52% 48% 5% 48% 47% 75+ 2% 46% 52% 7% 40% 53%
If unable to drive, half of older adults indicated they would rely on family and friends to get them to important places, such as grocery shopping and medical appointments.
Other forms of transportation are only being currently utilized by a small number of older adults. The most being used are taxis (6%). Mass transportation is only being used by a very small percentage
21 SOCIAL AND ARTS/CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
QUESTION: Which type of Cultural Event did you most often attend within the past year?
ATTENDED MOST OFTEN ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
Movies 23% 21% 27% 29% 9% Arts/Music/Cultural Festivals 17% 24% 13% 15% 17% Theatre Performances 15% 16% 17% 12% 12% Music Concerts 13% 11% 12% 15% 16% Other art shows/museums/galleries 5% 1% 11% 4% 6% Dance Performances 1% 1% - - - Columbia Art Center 1% 1% - 3% 2% Poetry/Literary Meetings 1% - - 2% 3% Did Not Attend Any 24% 25% 20% 22% 36%
QUESTION: Which one of the following activities did you participate in the most during the past year?
PARTICIPATED IN MOST OFTEN ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
Church/Synagogue/Religious Events 42% 44% 45% 36% 41% Meals with Friends 29% 28% 25% 34% 33% Board or Card Games 4% 1% 5% 7% 6% Discussion Groups 2% - 2% 2% 3% None 23% 27% 23% 21% 17%
Movies, festivals, theatre performances and music concerts are the most popular cultural activities among older adults in Columbia. Their social activities are primarily through their religious congregations and friends
22 COLUMBIA VILLAGE CENTERS
QUESTION: In the past year, how often have you visited a Columbia Village Community Center?
HOW OFTEN VISIT VILLAGE COMMUNITY CENTER ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
Twice a week or more 11% 10% 10% 10% 14% About once a week 8% 9% 5% 11% 10% 2-3 times per month 4% 6% 3% 4% 4% About once a month 11% 14% 7% 9% 11% Less than once a month 32% 34% 33% 31% 29% Not at all 34% 27% 42% 35% 32%
(OF THOSE WHO HAD VISITED) QUESTION: In the past year, which village centers did you visit most often?
Hawthorn Center in Hickory Ridge 15% Owen Brown Community Center in Owen Brown 14% Slayton House in Wilde Lake 12% Amherst House in Kings Contrivance 11% The Other Barn in Oakland Mills 10% Kahler Hall in Harpers Choice 11% Claret Hall in River Hill 9% StoneHouse in Long Reach 9% Linden Hall in Dorsey Search 5% Historic Oakland in Town Center 2% Not Sure 2%
23 QUESTION: In the past 12 months which Columbia Village Community center activities have you have participated in?
CHILDRENS EXERCISE FESTIVALS OR ACTIVITIES? CLASSES OR SPECIAL PROGRAMS? EVENTS?
YES NO YES NO YES NO
SEPTEMBER 2013 5% 95% 12% 88% 39% 61%
AGE: 45-54 10% 90% 18% 82% 50% 50% 55-64 3% 97% 5% 95% 36% 64% 65-74 2% 98% 11% 89% 36% 64% 75+ 3% 97% 17% 83% 28% 72%
CULTURAL OR OLDER ADULT EDUCATIONAL SOCIAL ACTIVITIES? OR CIVIC EVENTS? PROGRAMS?
YES NO YES NO YES NO
SEPTEMBER 2013 29% 71% 9% 91% 21% 79%
AGE: 45-54 42% 58% 11% 89% 27% 73% 55-64 24% 76% 7% 93% 16% 84% 65-74 27% 73% 7% 93% 21% 79% 75+ 19% 81% 9% 91% 18% 82%
The Village Association Centers are not heavily utilized and most of their programs are also not widely used by older adults. Special events and Festivals, however, are most popular with 39% of older adults saying they participated. This includes half (50%) of those between the ages of 45 and 54.
24 EMPLOYMENT/VOLUNTEERING
QUESTION: Which one of the following best describes your current employment situation?
CURRENT EMPLOYMENT SITUATION ALL 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
Employed full time 18% 35% 18% 8% - Employed part time 8% 7% 11% 9% 1% Not employed, looking 5% 10% 6%- - Do not work 29% 41% 52% 1% 1% Retired 38% - 12% 82% 98% Refused 2% 7% 1%- -
QUESTION: Within the past year, have you served as a volunteer?
QUESTION: Columbia and Howard County jointly fund a Volunteer Center. Are you aware of it and use it, aware of it but don’t use it, or not aware of it?
QUESTION: Columbia Association runs a Time-Banking program called the Columbia Exchange. Are you a member, aware of it but not a member or not aware of it?
VOLUNTEER? VOLUNTEER CENTER CA TIME BANKING AWARE AWARE AWARE DON’T NOT MEMBER NOT NOT YES NO USE USE AWARE MEMBER AWARE
SEPTEMBER 2013 45% 55% 2% 34% 64% 3% 15% 82%
AGE: 45-54 44% 56% 2% 19% 79% 3% 9% 88% 55-64 51% 49% 2% 32% 66% 1% 17% 82% 65-74 45% 55% 2% 39% 59% 4% 19% 77% 75+ 32% 68% 1% 63% 36% 2% 21% 77%
Older adults like to volunteer, but they do not use the Volunteer Center. Still, 36% are aware of it, including 64% of those 75%. The CA Time Banking program has very low visibility in the community, as 82% of older adults are totally unaware of its existence. 25
CA OLDER ADULT SURVEY RESULTS – SEPTEMBER 2013
SERVICES FOR OLDER ADULTS
QUESTION: Which one of the following best describes your current view about growing older in Columbia: (ORDER ROTATED)
61% – I am generally inclined to stay in Columbia as I grow older
35% – I am likely to leave Columbia at some point
4% – Not Sure (NOT READ)
QUESTION: How satisfied are you with the local programs and services that are offered to meet the needs of older adults? Are you:
Very Satisfied 22% Somewhat Satisfied 44% Somewhat Dissatisfied 7% Very Dissatisfied 4% Not Sure (NOT READ) 23%
QUESTION: How easy or difficult do you feel it is to find out which services and programs are available to meet the needs of older adults from the Howard County government? Is it:
Very Easy 23% Somewhat Easy 39% Somewhat Difficult 19% Very Difficult 5% Not Sure (NOT READ) 14%
QUESTION: How easy or difficult do you feel it is to find out which services and programs are available to meet the needs of older adults from the Columbia Association? Is it:
Very Easy 23% Somewhat Easy 40% Somewhat Difficult 18% Very Difficult 9% Not Sure (NOT READ) 10%
26 QUESTION: What is your primary source of information about programs and services for older adults?
Columbia Association Activities Guide 24% Columbia Association website 21% Howard County publications 22% Howard County Agency Websites 6% Columbia Association Social Media (Facebook/Twitter) - Other 14% None 11%
QUESTION: In the last year, which one of the following organizations have you contacted most often for information related to older adult issues or programs?
Howard County Office on Aging 9% Howard County Office of Disabilities Services 1% Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks 12% Maryland Department of Aging 1% Columbia Association 9% None of them 68%
QUESTION: Columbia Association runs a Time-Banking program called the Columbia Exchange. Are you:
A member 3% Aware of it but not a member 15% Not aware of it 82%
QUESTION: In the past year, have you had difficulty in maintaining the interior of your residence?
Yes 13% No 87%
(IF “YES” n=101) QUESTION: What is the main reason you had this difficulty?
Too busy 6% Not a high priority/not motivated 9% Work is physically too demanding 23% Help is too expensive 22% Do not know where to get reliable assistance 11% Don’t know how to begin/feel overwhelmed 28% Not Sure (NOT READ) 1%
27 QUESTION: In the past year, have you had difficulty in maintaining the exterior of your residence or property?
Yes 15% No 85%
(IF “YES” n=120) QUESTION: What is the main reason you have had this difficulty?
Too busy 24% Not a high priority/not motivated 3% Work is physically too demanding 13% Help is too expensive 23% Do not know where to get reliable assistance 8% Don’t know how to begin/feel overwhelmed 27% Not Sure (DO NOT READ) 2%
QUESTION: If you were no longer able to maintain your residence or yard would you know where to get assistance?
Yes 52% No 48%
QUESTION: How much of a concern is aging in place in your current home? Is it a:
Major concern 10% Moderate concern 30% Of little concern or no concern 60%
QUESTION: How much have you planned for aging in place in your current home? Have you:
Fully planned for aging in your home 10% Partially planned for aging in your home 31% Not planned yet for aging in your home 28% Do not plan to age in your home 27% Not Sure (NOT READ) 4%
QUESTION: As you get older, how likely are you to stay in your current home? Are you:
Very likely to stay 33% Somewhat likely to stay 28% Somewhat unlikely to stay 16% Very unlikely to stay 20% Not Sure (NOT READ) 3% 28 QUESTION: The “Village in Howard” concept is to create an organization that coordinates services for seniors who want to continue living in their residences, but need help. The organization provides services such as yard work, home-delivered meals, legal assistance, transportation and social activities. Have you heard about the “Village in Howard” concept?
Yes 27% No 73%
QUESTION: How likely are you to join and pay an annual fee to receive services from an organization like the “Village in Howard”?
Very likely 5% Somewhat likely 32% Somewhat unlikely 23% Very unlikely 32% Not Sure (NOT READ) 8%
29 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE
QUESTION: Over the past year, on average how often have you participated in exercise, sports, or fitness activities?
Less than once a week 11% 1-2 times a week 26% 3 or more times a week 45% Did not participate 18%
(OF THOSE EXERCISE n=660) QUESTION: Over the last year, which one of the following types of exercise did you do the most? (ORDER ROTATED)
Walking/Hiking 48% Fitness classes 14% Muscle strengthening 12% Swimming 7% Cycling 5% Dance 5% Running 4% Golf 3% Tennis 1% Ice Skating - None/Refused (NOT READ) 1%
QUESTION: Muscle strengthening exercises are activities that use your own body weight, such as sit-ups, push-ups, lifting weights, using weight machines, elastic bands or doing yoga. They DO NOT include aerobic activities such as running, walking or bicycling.
Over the past year, on average how many times per week did you do physical activities of exercise to strengthen your muscles?
Less than once a week 18% 1-2 times a week 37% 3 or more times a week 21% Did not participate 24%
30 QUESTION: I’m going to list exercise/wellness classes and programs CA offers. Please tell me your participation or interest in participating in each activity.
- Indoor Swimming
I currently participate 10% I might participate in the future 26% I am not likely to participate in the future 64%
- Water-Based Aerobic Aqua Fitness Classes
I currently participate 7% I might participate in the future 34% I am not likely to participate in the future 59%
- Group Fitness Classes:
I currently participate 9% I might participate in the future 40% I am not likely to participate in the future 51%
- Personal Training
I currently participate 4% I might participate in the future 29% I am not likely to participate in the future 67%
- Consultations for things like nutrition, pain, spinal health or acupuncture
I currently participate 6% I might participate in the future 38% I am not likely to participate in the future 56%
- Yoga or Pilates
I currently participate 9% I might participate in the future 37% I am not likely to participate in the future 54%
- Other Special Programs
I currently participate 6% I might participate in the future 50% I am not likely to participate in the future 44%
31
QUESTION: There are a number of places where you can participate in activities in Columbia. Within the last year, which one of these Columbia Association amenities have you used the most often? Second most often? Third most often? (ORDER ROTATED)
1ST 2ND 3RD TOTAL
Supreme Sports Club 17% 7% 3% 27% Athletic Club 11% 9% 5% 25% Pathways 13% 6% 4% 23% Outdoor Pool 4% 11% 6% 21% Columbia Gym 6% 7% 2% 15% Columbia Village Association centers 7% 2% 2% 11% Indoor Pool 6% 2% 2% 10% Hobbit’s Glen Golf Course 1% 1% 1% 3% Fairway Hills Golf Course 3% 1% 1% 5% Outdoor Tennis - 1% 1% 2% Indoor Tennis - 1% 1% 2% Columbia Ice Rink - 1% - 1% None 32% 52% 72% --
QUESTION: In the past year, have you used Columbia Association’s hot water therapy pool at the Athletic Club?
Yes 18% No 82%
QUESTION: If given the option, would you prefer to participate in:
Programs and classes for older adults only 30% Programs and classes open to all 55% No Preference/Would do both (NOT READ) 7% Neither/Would not participate (NOT READ) 8%
QUESTION: Do you prefer to exercise at:
32% - A large multi-recreational facility such as one of CA’s large fitness centers?
18% - A small specialized facility like a yoga studio?
24% - Classes at a Village Community Center?
8% - No Preference/Would do all (NOT READ)
17% - None/Would not use (NOT READ)
1% - Not Sure (NOT READ) 32 QUESTION: In the past year, have you used any non-Columbia fitness facilities?
Yes 33% No 67%
(IF “YES” n=261) QUESTION: Which one of the following non-Columbia Association facilities have you used most often? (ORDER ROTATED)
Senior Centers/50+ Centers 7% Recreation/Community Centers 1% Howard County Parks 18% Howard Community College 3% Lifetime Fitness 3% YMCA 5% Other Health Clubs 29% Facilities in my home 15% Facilities in a friend’s home 8% Facilities in my apartment building 2% Facilities of my homeowners association 3% None (NOT READ) 6%
QUESTION: Columbia Association offers a senior discount for membership to its recreational facilities. Are you:
Aware of it and use it 9% Aware of it, but don’t use it 37% Not aware of it 54%
QUESTION: Columbia Association has a “Six Class Pass” program. Are you:
Aware of it and use it 1% Aware of it, but don’t use it 19% Not aware of it 80%
33 TRANSPORTATION
QUESTION: What is your primary means of transportation?
Drive your car 90% Use transit - Spouse drives you 2% Another family member drives you 1% Someone else drives you 2% Take a taxi 2% Walk 3% Ride a bicycle -
QUESTION: Are you physically able to drive?
Yes 96% No 4%
------*** 770 DRIVERS ***
QUESTION: In the past year, have you had any physical limitations on your ability to drive or personally placed limitations on your driving?
Yes 10% No 90%
QUESTION: Do you have any of these limitations? YES NO
- Cannot or choose not to drive at night? 4% 96%
- Cannot or choose not to drive in bad weather? 5% 95%
- Cannot or choose not to drive long distance? 4% 96%
QUESTION: Thinking ahead, if you were no longer able to drive at all, how big of a concern would that be for you? Would it be a:
Major concern 69% Moderate concern 21% Of little concern or no concern 10%
34 QUESTION: Thinking ahead, if you were no longer able to drive a car at all, which one of the following would you most likely use to get to shopping, recreation, personal care, and medical appointments?
Depend on family or friends for car rides 50% Use public transit 14% Use Neighbor Ride 10% Use a taxi 8% Walk 5% Other 5% Not Sure (NOT READ) 8% ------
ALL RESPONDENTS:
QUESTION: I’m going to list several modes of transportation. Please tell me your current or future need for using each one.
- Howard Transit?
I currently use it 5% I might use it in the future 40% I am not likely to use it 55%
- Neighbor Ride?
I currently use it 1% I might use it in the future 51% I am not likely to use it 48%
- CA Senior Events Shuttle?
I currently use it - I might use it in the future 50% I am not likely to use it 50%
- Taxi?
I currently use it 6% I might use it in the future 50% I am not likely to use it 44%
35 SOCIAL AND ARTS/CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
QUESTION: Which type of Cultural Event did you most often attend within the past year? Second most often? Third most often? (ORDER ROTATED)
1ST 2ND 3RD TOTAL
Movies 23% 15% 7% 45% Music concerts 13% 23% 5% 41% Theatre performances 15% 13% 5% 33% Arts, music, or cultural festivals 17% 4% 8% 29% Other art shows, museums or galleries 5% 7% 11% 23% Dance performances 1% 3% 5% 9% Columbia Art Center 1% 3% 2% 6% Poetry or literary readings 1% - 3% 4% Did not attend any 24% 33% 54% --
QUESTION: Which one of the following activities did you participate in the most during the past year?
Meals with friends 29% Board or card games 4% Discussion groups 2% Church/Synagogue or religious events 42% None/Not Sure (NOT READ) 23%
36 COLUMBIA VILLAGE CENTERS
QUESTION: In the past year, how often have you visited a Columbia Village Community Center?
Twice a week or more 11% About once week 8% 2-3 times per month 4% About once a month 11% Less than once a month 32% Not at all 34%
(OF THOSE WHO HAD VISITED n=527) QUESTION: In the past year, which village centers did you visit most often?
Kahler Hall in Harpers Choice 11% Slayton House in Wilde Lake 12% Historic Oakland in Town Center 2% Hawthorn Center in Hickory Ridge 15% Linden Hall in Dorsey Search 5% Claret Hall in River Hill 9% The Other Barn in Oakland Mills 10% Owen Brown Community Center in Owen Brown 14% StoneHouse in Long Reach 9% Amherst House in Kings Contrivance 11% Not Sure (NOT READ) 2%
QUESTION: In the past 12 months which Columbia Village Community center activities have you have participated in?
YES NO
- Children’s Activities? 5% 95%
- Exercise Classes/Programs? 12% 88%
- Festivals/Special Events? 39% 61%
- Cultural & Social Events? 29% 71%
- Older Adult Activities? 9% 91%
- Educational & Civic Programs? 21% 79%
37 EMPLOYMENT/VOLUNTEERING
QUESTION: Which one of the following best describes your current employment situation?
Employed full time 18% Employed part time 8% Not employed, but looking for work 5% Do not work outside the home 29% Retired 38% Refused (NOT READ) 2%
QUESTION: Within the past year, have you served as a volunteer?
Yes 45% No 55%
QUESTION: Columbia and Howard County jointly fund a Volunteer Center. Are you:
Aware of it and use it 2% Aware of it, but don’t use it 34% Not aware of it 64%
38 DEMOGRAPHICS
QUESTION: How long have you lived in Columbia?
<5 years 7% (58) 5-9 years 11% (86) 10-19 years 18% (141) 20-29 years 32% (257) 30-39 years 20% (163) 40+ years 12% (95)
QUESTION: Which of the following best describes your household?
One adult living alone or with no child under the age of 18 25% (200) One adult, youngest child under the age of 18 3% (24) Two adults, alone or with no child under the age of 18 46% (370) Two adults, youngest child under the age of 18 18% (142) Multi-Family 1% (9) Multi-Generational 7% (53) Refused - (2)
QUESTION: Including you, how many people aged 65 or older live in your household?
One 32% (255) Two 20% (163) Three or more - (1) None 48% (381)
QUESTION: Which one of the following best describes your race or ethnicity?
White/Caucasian 56% (447) Black/African-American 30% (237) Hispanic/Latino 4% (34) Asian 7% (56) Biracial or Multiracial 2% (17) Other 1% (6) Refused - (3)
39 QUESTION: Do you own your home or rent your home?
Own home 84% (677) Rent home 15% (118) Refused 1% (5)
QUESTION: What village do you live in?
Harper’s Choice 13% (103) Wilde Lake 11% (90) Town Center 2% (19) Hickory Ridge 15% (122) Dorsey Search 5% (40) River Hill 8% (65) Oakland Mills 11% (86) Owen Brown 13% (106) Long Reach 11% (87) Kings Contrivance 10% (82)
QUESTION: What is your annual household income before taxes? Is it:
<$25,000 6% (50) $25,000-$49,999 8% (65) $50,000-$74,000 12% (93) $75,000-$99,999 11% (90) $100,000-$124,999 11% (87) $125,000-$149,999 9% (74) $150,000+ 16% (125) Refused (NOT READ) 27% (216)
SEX: Male 48% (386) Female 52% (414)
AGE: 45-54 30% (240) 55-64 30% (244) 65-74 25% (200) 75+ 15% (116)
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Appendix D
Input from Small Group Discussions
Comprehensive Plan for Serving Older Adults Small Group Discussion with Village Managers July 16, 2013; 10:30‐Noon
Attendees: • Susan Smith – River Hill • Sandy Cederbaum – Oakland Mills • Wendy Tzuker – Harper’s Choice • Craig Barton – Owen Brown • Kristin Shulder – Wilde Lake • Jessamine Duvall – Hickory Ridge • Beverly Myers – Kings Contrivance • Jackie Felker – Dorsey’s Search
Definitions & Clarifications: • Programs: Specific organized program, i.e., older adult exercise program • Facilities: Physical Plant, building or portions found within the building (the aquatic therapy pool, within the Athletic Club) • Services: i.e., shuttle services • Older Adult: the plan is for 55 and above
What are your ideas on changes to CA programs, services or facilities that you would like to see to enhance the lives of Columbia’s older adults?
Program Ideas • Senior rates (discounts) at specific times • Multicultural programs • Intergenerational programs • Helping seniors stay in their homes • Newsletter just for SST about activities produced by CA • Lunch & learn type activities regularly • Connecting with schools • Managing stress for caregivers, e.g. support groups, targeted yoga/meditation • Educating caregivers on how to use technological tools to connect/monitor parents remotely • Targeted programs at Art Center • Exercise: o Exercise programs geared towards different age groups o Exercise programs geared toward abilities/restrictions as age o Walking groups – visit CA paths together o Nutrition classes for active adults – e.g., how to use supplements safely o Daytime fitness classes for retirees • Travel: o Day trips e.g., expand on museum tours through Art Center o Regional travel trips to supplement county o Local and abroad. Help with planning trips, day trips, extended trips • Clubs: o Book clubs
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o Online book clubs o Games get‐togethers like bridge • Workshops: o Home repair ‐ partnered with local contractors/stores; computer skills o Technology skills ‐ teaching newer skills as technology changes o Financial literacy o Working with pets ‐ aging with pets; training • Categorize the programs: helps with facility planning/ facility designation ‐ travel/leisure; education; fitness; • Village centers could be used fully
Services Ideas • Transport: o More door to door transportation like HATS but for any location not just senior centers and medical o Transportation a big problem for 65+ o Promote SR shuttle; expand on idea; partner with Neighbor Ride o Free transportation to CA facilities like gyms – circulator bus from village centers • Fitness: o More fitness classes offered in village centers by CA, as part of package plan. o Travelling personal trainers that teach simple weight‐bearing exercises • Talks: o Aging in place talks o Free talks on social security, finance, taxes, Medicare, caregiver services • Training: o At home services for PCs o Caregiver services and support o Social media for seniors o Technology o Training: we are a great community of great knowledge and expertise; tap into that resource to train seniors in new skills • Home Repair/Maintenance: o Free/low cost snow shoveling, grass‐cutting, leaf removal etc. for low income and elderly/disabled. o Referral programs – property maintenance assistance • Newsletter for age group • Organized bus trips and seminars • Financial assistance to aid in participation • Partner with schools – mentorships, volunteering in schools • Game centers, i.e., Scrabble, Bridge, Trivial Pursuits • Volunteerism – tap into senior population • Resource Directory – like an “Angie’s List” for Columbia with services • Job bank for people looking to hire seniors • (Tapping into the resources of the) active seniors • Less independent seniors • Caregivers • Aging in Place: o Help with maintenance services
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o Who to call for assistance o Volunteers o Transportation o Finances o To replicate a “leisure world” lifestyle but from their own homes o Connections between the services, facilities and programs (transportation, education & communication ) • Adopt a Pet • Doggie Day Care
Facilities Ideas *Noted that there was a desire for both offering designated locations/times for senior activities, as well as not pigeon‐holing a location as a “senior facility” or “senior village” • More activities in village centers, like talks. • Partner with facilities and offer classes in house • Partner with villages on programs and make use of community centers • Use of facilities by other organizations – private/public partnerships • Dedicated “Senior Time” for lap swimming and use of exercise equipment • Drop‐in elderly care facility (1‐4 hrs.) • Linking with adult daycare to provide services and facilities • Replicate Leisure World • Seniors to feel safe in community • Facilities for pets to be with owners • What modifications need to be made to facilities to accommodate aging population? • Combine facility uses, i.e., teen center in the afternoon/eve and senior rec/computer center during the day • Older adult leisure activities, e.g., chessboards, bocce, shuffleboard • Designate a facility as a destination for a category vs. intergenerational location • Outdoor facility programs to coincide with locations – dog park – doggy day care • Distributed through the community (proximity) • Safety (real, not just perceived)
Additional Discussion • Need for not just the older adult, but the caregivers as well • (There is a need for) services for seniors and by seniors • Defining “older adult” the group sees two populations and levels of needs: o Active seniors and more sedentary seniors o Independent seniors vs. those needing services
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Comprehensive Plan for Serving Older Adults Small Group Discussion with Advisory Committee Representatives July 18, 2013; 7:00‐8:30PM
Attendees and committee associations:
• Stephanie Lyon ‐ Art Center • Chadi Groome ‐ Health and Fitness • Sherman Taffez ‐ International Exchange & Multicultural Programs • Jerry Boyer ‐ Tennis • Valerie Montague ‐ International Exchange & Multicultural Programs • Carlton Haywood ‐ Aquatics
What are your ideas on changes to CA programs, services or facilities that you would like to see to enhance the lives of Columbia’s older adults?
Programs Ideas
• Maximize outreach to older adults • CA should closely track program usage. Adjust as demand changes • CA should provide rebate on assessment at the same % as Howard County has for aging in place home improvements • Senior assessment ‐ after 25 years of living in your house, you should be exempt from the assessment; Example: Fauquier County, VA seniors get a free house on 5 acres and tax exempt. For us that have been here since the 70’s, CA is a homeowners Association, but CA should take leadership of role for providing care for residents. I view this as my local Medicare • Homestead Tax Extension for Maryland • I feel there should be a senior aquatic pass that’s a lot cheaper than the standard rate • Where are there gaps in facilities/services that CA could offer? What should we do ten years from now? • Discounts for seniors (CA fees and program fees) • Adequate training of CA staff in working with older adults • Wheelchair tennis program • Aquatics facilities are in high demand at peak hours. Opportunity to expand programs at late morning early afternoon off peak time for retired people • Not all seniors are retired and a lot of these events are during the day, so it would be good to have evening programs for seniors • Tailoring programs to all age groups, not just seniors • Fitness classes and activities appear to be for either the very active younger population or the very much less active older adult population. Classes and activities focused on a mid‐range more active energetic older population would be welcome • Tailor aqua aerobics classes to age groups within the 55+ range • More cultural events geared to multiple generations • Discussion groups that meet regularly to discuss issues (maybe as part of O.L.L.I. (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) or Great Ideas • Advertisement of International Multi‐Cultural programs of value/interest to seniors
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• Neighborhood‐based amenities ‐ fitness classes in community centers • CA TV fitness classes to provide fitness activities access to seniors in their home • Micro‐lending ‐ people pooling money. CA could be coordinator of this service
Facilities Ideas • Lower cost for local residents to use/rent village center community buildings in their home village • Ensure that all facilities are accessible • CA senior health, support coordination with out‐patient services • Local pools needs to be senior friendly (not so many kids) • Aquatics Master Plan discussed theming pools for seniors, maybe we need to revisit that. Lots of issues involved, can we put up barriers, such as age barriers on pools? • Expand year‐round pool capacity provides opportunity to expand programs • New indoor tennis facility • Expand fitness facilities to village centers with high population over 65 (Owen Brown, Oakland Mills, Long Reach, Town Center)
Services Ideas • Clearinghouse for active volunteer events, like walk‐a‐thons, so people can go to one site to learn about such events • Clearinghouse for info i.e., elder care, senior housing etc. (like Angie’s List but focused on seniors) • CA could consider having an older adult coordinator for all services at CA for older adults? • More accessible transportation • Transportation to CA fitness centers for lien holders • Neighbor Ride is inadequate; maybe partner with Neighbor Ride, and expand Neighbor Ride • Is transportation to facilities a barrier? If so, find ways to provide • Minimum exercise facilities at older villages (Oakland Mills, Owen Brown Town Center, Long Reach) • Maximize coordination with County services • Senior Athletic Advisors (coaches) • Expand event shuttle ‐ Centerstage, Meyerhoff, Columbia Art Center etc. • Assistants to aid with activities • Service that links seniors with people who will phone call regularly to check on them • CA Maintenance crew to help seniors with regular home repairs (storm damage) • Stream public meetings live so people can watch online from home • Free health assessment fitness/nutrition ‐ where is CA County leadership? • Live in Stevens Forest ‐ first community in Oakland Mills, half of my neighbors are original owners, some are handicapped and needed special care; neighbor had a tree fall into house ‐ CA could help with seniors who are vested in the community‐construction services to residents who are older or have lived in the community for a long time. CA could help fix significant/catastrophic damage with resources. Maybe this is available to all? • Seniors for seniors. Volunteer senior helping seniors • Financial or legal advice for seniors, such as for a will. • Encourage affordable housing
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• Where are there gaps in facilities/services that CA could offer? • Also comes down to what can we pay for • For folks that have been here for 40 years and have original concept for Columbia that whatever is included in the Plan represent this vision; and that it’s a model for the next 40 years‐‐a caring community
Additional Discussion • Older Adult Plan should be integrated, and not a static plan, but updated overtime; Maybe it has benchmarks for triggers ‐ once we reach this number/or when events happens, then this action will happen; continue on‐going renewal of what works and what doesn’t work. Plan should build in a review process
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Appendix E
Input from Public Meetings: May 22012 & January 2014
Comprehensive Plan for Serving Older Adults Open House, MAY 2013 Question: To enhance the lives of Columbia's older adults, what CA program or facility change would you like to see? Suggestion Votes More variety of programs, classes and events for older adults 63 Partner with additional senior service providers to extend transportation options 40 Add more fitness classes catered to older adults 38 Offer fitness activities/classes at village/neighborhood or other non‐gym sites 36 Explore social groups for older adults 33 Offer outdoor activities focused on older adults (walking, hiking) 28 Provide niche wellness classes through partnering with senior health & service providers 20 Provide infrastructure for "village concept" activities/programs ‐ seniors helping seniors 19 Provide free transport to CA fitness facilities ‐ buses and pedestrian transportation expanded (safely) 17 Assist with access to network of aging services 13 Provide for reliable sitters for homebound 12 Lower fees for seniors 12 Single fitness machines (like a recumbent cross trainer) in locations other than a fitness center having many equipment options 10 Put benches here and there so I can sit while on a walk 4 Provide computer training to seniors that are immobile 3 Use the talents of seniors. Don't see us as only people with needs 2 Put public toilets here and there, especially at lakes 2 Have a keychain tag to return lost keys to closest senior center (mailbox drop‐in with postage guaranteed) 1 Outreach to people who don't/can't attend CA facilities 1 Better PR for existing services/programs 1
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Comprehensive Plan for Serving Older Adults Open House, May 2013 Comment Card Results
Please provide any additional comments related to CA's services or facilities for serving older adults: I'd like to see more mixed‐age groups, not just seniors Please take into account that many older adults are still employed outsidee of the hom so some classes are only available during the day for older adults. Should also be available on some evenings or weekends It would have been useful to have an open discussion on the needs for 65 years and older. It would have been very useful to have comments from the audience Need more transportation; things for good health; Would like some people my age (70 years and older) at Heatherfield condo. Will need companion ultimately and assisted living facility and home. My husband and I are snowbirds. We need membership to the Athletic Club while we are in town. Help. Active seniors were well represented. Older seniors are not well represented. Outreach is needed to senior centers like Bam. My point exactly. Place more benches around the lakes, especially the paths so when I walk, I can sit; transportation needed for my friends CA should not be the one to do this because it is membership only Plan additional open houses periodically to update the portion on all plan status Continue to develop senior programs The room is too small ‐ could not see screen of video and other presentation graphics Not enough emphasis on the 50‐60 year olds who still work but might be interested in activities other than driving kids to soccer practice Everything was almost daytime, early evenings for working seniors would have been helpful, demographics ‐ working in a school I hear teachers saying that they cannot afford to live in Howard County and/or the social life is not for young singles More frequent transportation schedule with more stops to accommodate the elderly; more housing appropriate to the elderly in Columbia No one mentioned programs like kindred spirits located in Glenwood. Need more of same in Columbia to serve population with MCI or dementia Dog park near/inn Owe Brown possibly at unused school field; offer more classes for package plan members; port a johns at Lake Elkhorn (or open bathrooms in covered picnic facility); pets visiting folks at senior residents How many of the programs require CA membership? Try to allow more time for swimming at the pools outside. We need our own time for quiet and relaxing laps or just float Thank you for this event. Think about coordinating with the "aging in place" village concept, "the village in Howard County" CA needs to address the needs of disabled older adults (e.g. people who live in their own homes, people in group homes, assisted living) with those living independently and certain it examines people with all conditions (e.g. physical, mental, developmental disabilities. Explore collaboration with HCC for subsidized classes
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Older Adult Plan Comments & Responses on Public Review Draft (includes written & verbal comments) Columbia Association, 2/21/2014 Comments and Response It is probably going to be more expensive than would be if it were simply relied on Howard County for the services. Thank you for your comment. The intent is not to duplicate county programs but to provide enhanced programs/services within CA's mission. We have clarified the introduction to emphasize this. Affordability and transportation - more is needed. Thanks for your comment. We will forward this comment on to the County's Transportation Office. What about language learning clubs - also mental health issues. Communication/alternatives. We will be adding language about enhancing engagement with foreign-born older adults. We believe other agencies are better placed to address mental health issues. Main suggestion: one booklet that will describe all the groups and what they offer (ex. The Villages in Howard). Now we can choose knowledgeably. Through the flier is a great idea for dissemination. Example: info on the Golden Age Pass - who knows about it? Thanks for your comments and we are glad that you have learned about the Village in Howard and the Golden Age Pass. Howard County's Resource Guide is the best place to learn about county programs for older adults. The report does a very good job identifying and categorizing areas of concern, but lacks implementation details. Success or failure of this effort will depend on the implementation details.
The plan includes 50 recommendations. These are also included in the implementation section of the plan with the CA division responsible and the time frame. The plan recommends that implementation be tracked and reported annually. Chapter 4 needs more specific concrete steps, target dates ("ongoing"= no firm deadlines), and plans for assessing impact (usage goals, nos. served). Also some $ range figures re proposed budget outlays. See Ch. comments too. The plan's recommendations set the frame for future action. On-going means that this is an expansion or extension of something CA already does. That is defined in the Implementation section. In addition, the plan recommends that implementation be tracked and reported annually. I appreciate the work and good intention of this study. I'm looking forward to hearing more details about how programs will be networked with senior centers, condo boards, senior residences being inclusive of every economic level, and nitty-gritty stuff like the size and color of print on maps (i.e. new pathway map).
This plan is focused on what CA can do related to its own programs and services and how it can advocate for action by other organizations and partner with others to enhance services/programs for older adults. When the plan is approved by the CA Board, CA can publicize the plan so others can become aware of these initiatives. We have coordinated closely with the county's office on aging and Columbia's village associations and will continue to. I was not part of the initial survey but transportation and aging in place are definitely my top two concerns as I age. When I can no longer drive, I want to still get out to shop, socialize, take classes, go to church etc. Thank you. We appreciate your comments. The plan does identify mobility for older adults as a top concern. It sounded like "The Plan" would not be set in concrete and that adjustments would be made as new discoveries were found. I feel this is important for it to succeed. Yes. Plans set a frame for action and should be updated as major changes occur or every 5 to 10 years. The plan recommends that implementation be tracked and reported annually.
Page 7. Concerning tennis clubs and the participation of seniors in leagues. I made a suggestion at a senior advisory committee that the sport of pickleball be instituted at CA's outdoor courts. This would involve low-cost changes to existing courts (the painting of lines to reduce the size, for example). These courts could still be used by other players at other times. The new Tennis General Manager could perhaps purchase paddles/rackets and balls dedicated to pickleball. I suggest he provide lots of information to the community at large when this begins. Perhaps the new General Manager could help to organize block times for pickleball times. (I would be willing to work on a sub-committee advisory committee for this sport).
Thank you for your suggestion. Sounds like fun. We are forwarding it on to our Sports and Fitness and tennis staff.
Pg. 6, I like the idea of reduced rates and fees for CA programs for older adults. Transportation options for older adults also needs serious consideration. People should be able to get to places without extensive delays or major inconvenience. Thank you for your comments. Howard Transit has old buses and one I rode last fall on the yellow line had a rugged trip where the engine caught fire, I was loaded with packages so could not do much walking, and had to wait for along time until it finally returned to the Mall where I caught a cab home. Need better buses then that one. We are forwarding your comment on to the Howard County Office of Transportation. In defining the Older Adults you ignore anything except age - no racial, ethnic or financial characteristics. If you want to plan programs and fees this information would be useful. We are enhancing the text to include text and a table that explains Columbia's racial and ethnic diversity.
1 Please note that not all seniors have Internet access. A special effort needs to be taken to provide information to them. Thank you for this reminder. We are aware of that and continue to get the word out about our services in many ways through print and other media. The planning and engagement process appeared to be well thought out. Thank you. Engagement and interest has been high. In the past week, the water pipes froze and burst where I live, I had no water for 2 days. They were repaired. Immediately a hole and leak in the roof of my building developed. This was repaired. I then got sick. I am OK now but may need better housing. Ultimately assisted living. I am hoping things work. In the future will need assisted living. The County's Office of Aging's MAP should be able to assist you with finding available assistance. Please call them at 410-313- 5980. A time-frame to accomplish goals seems unduly long - I would suggest a much shorter time frame of five years. The plan has many recommendations that are to commence in the next two years. In fact, most are in this time frame. Others will take longer. Nicely done re verification of data base and presentation: clear, concise. Recommend something about time frame for publicizing final plan through village centers and 2014 community events and other venues. Thank you. We will publicize the final plan as you suggest after it is approved by CA's Board. I attended the morning meeting and learned the need for transportation. Thank you for attending despite the challenges. Chapter 3, part 3.D concerning Osher classes per se: I understand from reading a recent newspaper article that one has to join for $525 per year then take as many classes as desired. I believe that this was because of a relationship with John Hopkins University with classes offered in Columbia. I suggest that affordable options be explored and perhaps a partnership with HCC or Rec and Parks be instituted. Osher at $525.00 per year should not be the only suggestion or the only partnership opportunity to be explored. That is why we did not focus on the JHU program - because of the upfront expense and instead want to work with HCC since they already waive tuition for students 60 and over (space permitting). Change language to expand lifelong learning opportunities with community college and JHU, not to create. Agree with this comment. "Expand" is more appropriate given all that HCC already does. Addressing health and wellness - include emotional/mental health issues of groups, sessions, programs to promote emotional wellness. Deal with stress, loss advocacy (e.g. partner - Howard County Mental Health Authority)
Wellness and physical well-being is part of CA's core offerings. Mental health services are as you point out best provided by others.Our programs and facilities do provide places for social interaction, enhanced physical well-being and engagement. Additional thoughts about senior services in public schools - volunteer yes - but class offerings after hours. We will pass this comment on to HCPSS and the Office on Aging. OLLI already exists in Columbia through John Hopkins. The fact that the report appears not to know this cast a shadow on the overall research. Both HC Rec and Parks and the Mountain Club of Maryland offer group hikes in the County. The casual meet- up space could be used as a start point for a group walk. We do know that there is an OLLI at JHU. Because of the upfront expense of that program, we did not focus on it and instead want to work with HCC since they already waive tuition for students 60 and over (space permitting). On the outdoor activities, many have suggested organized hikes on our pathways and we would like to try that. We know from the county's health survey that any people need to increase the amount of exercise and we also know that exercise is one of the keys to a healthy life for any age group but particularly for older adults.
Pg. 16 item 1 - I strongly agree with the mobility need. I can drive now but want to make sure that I have a means of transportation when it is no longer safe for me to drive. Also like the aging in place recommendations. Pg 18 B - the idea of drop in on scheduled games, book clubs, afternoon movies at the village centers and (D) the idea of OSHER in Columbia through Howard Community College. There are several HCC classes that I would like to take but need to pay full tuition until I am 62. I'm not 62 yet and won't be for another 7 years! Perhaps HCC could offer a discount for older adults who aren't 62 yet.
Thanks. Please know that HCC's tuition waiver is for those aged 60 and above. At least that shortens your wait! Pg. 15 B, a free services such as bus transportation is paid for by someone - by us via taxes. In this as in other services a minimal amount should be charged. Thanks The free service mentioned is how another jurisdiction offers the service and was used as an example. If implemented locally, the county would decide on charges/fees.
2 I do not agree with this chapter. I no longer drive - I need Howard Transit, Neighbor Ride to get to places. I cannot rely on my neighbors at Heatherfield condo. They tend to be younger and do their own thing independently from me. My neighbor across the hall is a couple living together without being married. The pipes froze, the roof leaked and Heatherfield Condo where I live looks like a disaster area with a number of units being gutted from the water and large piles of debris are scattered around the complex. I do not have the Internet and many people appear to have it. I understand its expensive and the past two years I spent much money on repairs, renovations a new stove a new refrigerator a new bed bed etc. I cannot commit to an ongoing expensive thing consequently. Thank you for your comments. The county's Office on Aging offers a full-range of services that may be of assistance to you. Please contact them at 410-313-5980. Special rates for seniors need to be lowered for more seniors to participate. And presently, more media/advertisement should be utilized to inform them of existing rates and programs. Thank you. CA has assistance for CA residents including older adults who meet income qualifications. The plan recommends that these continue to be publicized
Maybe a ven diagram in Appendix? Some things relatively east/cheap to do, like Home Repair Clearing like Angie's list; soon note that there is already Osher in Columbia; how is D on p. 16 different. And I would put #8 p. 23 at top to do first.
Thank you for your detailed review. We know of the OSHER at JHU which serves Columbia but there is a substantial up-front fee. That is why we did not focus on the JHU program - because of the upfront expense and instead want to work with HCC since they already waive tuition for students 60 and over (space permitting). On your suggestion related to establishing priorities and specifically your interest in the recommendations related to enhanced communication and coordination, please know that all the recommendations under this topic are to be initiated this year. Verbal Comment: Senior shuttle- funding should be continued, expanded Yes. That is included in the draft plan; Verbal Comment: Expanding transit options through private organizations Yes. A full range of options to expand transit and shuttle services is needed. Verbal Comment: Neighbor Ride needs more support – not enough drivers. Maybe CA can work collaboratively with them to extend the availability of this service. CA does provide funding for Neighbor Ride and you are right, NR is seeking additional drivers. Verbal Comment: Looking to the County for transportation options Yes. The plan recommends CA advocate for this. Verbal Comment: Swim Center- schedule changes should be better communicated to swim center users The plan addresses the need for enhanced communication. Verbal Comment: Aquatics - An additional indoor pool is desired. Many older adults swim to keep fit. Indoor pool space and needs are addressed in the Aquatics Plan. Verbal Comment: Aqua class for those with MS Will pass this on to our programming colleagues for review and consideration. Verbal Comment: Hiking/Walking: There should be different levels of difficulty in walking/hiking opportunities. Is there really a need for hiking and walking program? Good examples of existing walks that work well: Archives tour programs – "Walk Abouts" and "Bike Abouts" offer guided walking/biking initiatives
Thanks. We seek to offer nature walks and others through our pathway system to augment the specialized ones you mention. Verbal Comment: Add another, more movie series We will forward this on to our CA community services colleagues. Verbal Comment: Benches - add more in CA parks Thank you. The draft plan does recommend this. Verbal Comment: Enclose a walking area for the less mobile, less nimble, and for those with cognitive issues The draft plan does recommend that park furnishings to serve older adults be explored. Verbal Comment: More community garden opportunities - perhaps partner with the county for new garden areas with proximity to existing CA or other facilities (with access to water).
Columbia Gardeners' successful partnership with Howard County has allowed generations of Columbia residents, including large numbers of older adults, the opportunity to enjoy vegetable gardening. It is understood that additional plots would be readily leased. Locating garden plots on CA open space lands near facilities with a program similar to that developed by the Columbia Gardeners for County property could be a highly beneficial effort if an un-treed site with access to water and parking were found; if residents living in view of the garden were agreeable; and if CA's Board of Directors allocated funds for necessary infrastructure. We will look into this. Verbal Comment: CA fee schedule- should be reduced for all seniors Thank you. CA has assistance for CA residents including older adults who meet income qualifications. The plan recommends that these continue to be publicized and offered.
3 Verbal Comment: Avoid overlap of offerings with Howard County Rec & Park Thank you for your comment. The intent is not to duplicate county programs but to provide enhanced programs/services within CA's mission. Verbal Comment: Village programs & CA partnerships with Villages
Agree. The draft plan includes a number of recommendations related to partnerships and especially with village associations. Verbal Comment: Add list of examples of ongoing partnerships CA is currently in or developing Thanks for the suggestion. We plan to add this in the revised plan. Verbal Comment: Language barriers - address language issues of foreign-born residents We plan to address this as we revise the plan. Thank you. Verbal Comment: Culturally specific services are important; language inclusion (in media, signage, programming) We plan to address the need for enhanced communication with foreign language speaking residents.
Verbal Comment: Communication- it should be easier to find out about the services and programs available for older adults. Yes. The plan recommends enhanced and improved communications.
Verbal Comment: Information – it should be easier to find information about transportation options, perhaps in real time. Yes. The plan recommends enhanced and improved communications. Verbal Comment: Condo associations need to have information about aging on place issues. Thanks. Yes. There are many in the community that are and need to be educated about and involved in these issues Verbal Comment: Columbia Flier- speaker recommends placing inserts about programs etc. into the Flier. These are all good suggestions on expanding communications and outreach. Thank you. Verbal Comment: Plan should address emotional wellness as well as physical Agree that emotional wellness is important. The county and other agencies are in a better position to address these needs based on expertise and available resources. Verbal Comment: Economics - job opportunities are not addressed in the plan – I need employment We recommend that you will reach out to Howard County for assistance on resources available to meet your individual employment needs. Verbal Comment: Volunteers- can be part of plan implementation Yes. Agree, The plan addresses this and speaks to peer-to-peer opportunities for older adults helping and learning from older adults Verbal Comment: Crime- appears to be increasing. CA should advocate for measures to reduce crime. Crime is an important issue. We work closely with the county's Police Department. One example is the patrols of our pathway system. I am shocked that your committee did not know there already exists an OSHER program in Columbia. Didn't anyone read the Beacon newspaper or attend 50+ Expo this year? I am concerned about the depth of your research on this issue.
We do know that there is an OLLI at JHU. Because of the upfront expense of that program, we did not focus on it and instead want to work with HCC since they already waive tuition for students 60 and over (space permitting).
Cultural activities are a good idea - we do have a growing foreign population. More benches in Wilde Lake along pathway. Thanks. We will be adding text related to enhanced engagement with foreign-born older adults. Thanks for your support of our recommendation to provide more benches and other facilities for older adults within our parks and open space areas. Implementation details missing. Specific implementation objectives missing. The implementation section includes 50 recommendations and provides who is responsible and when the recommendations should be initiated. A progress report is recommended to be done annually. Be more pro-active on transport side; better publicity re options (Neighbor Ride, evident at 1/13 mtg). Plan fails to mention publicizing transport options such as JRide at clubs and CA events, etc. Implementation needs details, deadlines, measurable outcomes, metrics for success, projected $ figures, named agencies to work with. Need more information on SES and targets for goals. Need to prioritize goals. The implementation section includes 50 recommendations and provides who is responsible and when the recommendations should be initiated. A progress report is recommended to be done annually. Seniors need to be educated to identify scams and con artists. HARP Bulletin Jan.Feb. pg. 12-13 addresses these issues. This educational component with the health and well-being of the senior citizens in our community. Thank you. The county and others are in a better position to offer classes on this subject. Please contact the county's Office of Consumer Services as one source of more information. Need major improvement in Howard Transit bus system. Need increased reliability in all provided transportation as I do not drive and must use transportation other than driving to get places. We agree and will be forwarding your comment and other similar ones to the county's Office of Transportation. We all would like improved local public transportation and understand this is a priority for the county.
4 Need events shuttle. CA currently does operate the Senior Events Shuttle. Please call 410-715-3087 to find out more. The plan for implementation makes sense to me. Thank you. I would prefer that these needs be met by Howard County rather than CA. I think there is bound to be duplication of effort and expense. CA dues and Howard County taxes are already excessive. Perhaps one of the best things you could do for seniors would be to reduce these taxes. Thank you. The plan focuses on what CA can do to serve older adults, within our mission. It is not our intent to duplicate efforts. We are enhancing the plan text to more clearly state this. Better communications to publicize current availability We agree and have included this in the recommendations. Plan at last! Thanks. I second the request for a meeting to explain the senior transportation program to those who are interested. Thanks for this suggestion. We will consider this good idea. You guys are doing a great job and I think listening to the public is a great way to make an impact - people feel heard. That's important - thanks. CA shuttle needs to be advertised better. Senior discount should be looked at carefully. Transportation is a big issue. Thank you. The shuttle service is a big success and making people of aware of it is important and necessary. Transportation was the number one need expressed by the community. Transportation - major aside from standard need more - there needs to be acknowledgement that support for transit access is also really lacking - shelters, time notice, walkway to bus stop, lighting. Housing affordability and diversity is very important - real need for Downtown Columbia and around village centers. Support ideas about fees - should also consider that for non CA interaction - seniors and pets/members. Thank you. We will be passing along your comments regarding transportation to the county's Office of Transportation. Goals must be quantified. Our intent with the goals is to have them be over-arching. The 50 recommendations are where our implementation focus will be. Please refer to the Implementation Chapter.
The comment about integrating the plan into assisted living and senior housing is important. The emotional health issue is a big one for the older adult community is important as well. Thanks for this plan and all your hard work. Thank you. A range of housing options in the community is important and Columbia is fortunate to have a great diversity in housing. As we have more older adults in the community who are living longer, there will be a growing need for low- maintenance and assisted housing options. Just because one is a senior is not a reason for discounting. That should be need-based. Thank you. Equity in fees is important for all groups. CA's income qualified program is open to all who meet the income guidelines.
Because of the recognized need in your report to promote healthy lifestyles and exercise, I request that the CA Board offer an accommodating, meaningful and substantial reduction in CA Package Plan Membership for the Older Adult Community in Columbia. The current discount for older adults is not adequate. This would be a win for CA and a win for the older adult community. It would also show CA's commitment to this population. I strongly recommend you make this happen. Thank you. Equity in fees is important for all groups. CA's income qualified program is open to all who meet the income guidelines. A list of the plan committee members with their affiliations would have contributed to the value of the plan I think. Also, a brief list of the "experts" utilized would be helpful to detect any bias. The list is included in the full plan document in the acknowledgments. For a list of those experts who were contacted, see the Appendix Section F, related to the work done by Leadership Howard County.
Additional comments: Ch. 4 Need specifics re implementation, prioritizing, dates, metrics for outcomes and a "measure success" plan to be used at some point. there are some obvious/omitted things CA could do re Neighbor Ride and SES re publicizing services through clubs, developing some sign-up capabilities at clubs, doing more to use village centers (which host a lot of senior events) as clearing houses and information centers, developing specific programs at villages, etc. Much more could/should be done re expanding SES services through 50+ communities, retirement communities and their corporate pockets to fund (Vantage House is just a beginning) etc. Also should be SES information available at every event, all apartment complexes, etc. Why do we need another Osher Center in Columbia? Are there specific ways CA thinks it can work with HCC? All very vague. There also could be a self help/invest in your future aspect to the plan to engage older adults; no mention? Thank you. The plan does recommend enhancing outreach and awareness of the events shuttle and continuing to fund Neighbor Ride. The reason we focused on expanding educational programs (such as through another OSHER) is that the current JHU OSHER has a large up-front cost. We do mention peer-to-peer learning in the plan (see recommendation 3., E on page 18.).
5 In comparing the CA proposals with those of Howard County (listed in the Resource Guide), I find a lot of duplication. My concern is that CA is proposing to add on programs and an additional office to their already-overstaffed bureaucracy. I think there should be further cooperation between Howard County and CA to make sure that each respects its own areas of concern. My thinking is that Howard County should have overall responsibility for older adult programs (in Columbia and in the rest of Howard County). I see no reason for Columbians' to be differentiated from other older adults. There area areas where CA has a reasonable function, because of the extra facilities provided to Columbians', such as swimming pools, paths, recreational programs provided by CA’s Package Plan, etc. But I also believe that anything which could concern or benefit all Howard Countians' should be the purview of Howard County, not CA. Taxes for both entities are extremely high. I suspect that a lot of older adults would rather see their taxes lowered than to be provided with some of the things which CA is proposing.
Thank you. We are enhancing the introduction to make it clear that this plan is focused on what CA can do within its mission and to make it equally clear what is outside this mission and within the purview of state and local government. That said, we do partner with many organizations to bring the best services and programs to our community. 1) The plan needs to be explicit about the limit in its scope. What is within CA's authority to do, what CA may only do in concert with the County or State or other entities, and what is exclusively under those entities authorities and CA may only provide input to. There should be clear boundaries drawn as to what authorities exist. 2) There needs to be an explicit statement about budget-- without a statement as to how and when the proposals would be funded the plan is not a 'plan' it is as simply an issue paper or statement of purpose and should be retitled as such.
We will be adding text in the introduction to make it clearer about the scope of this plan and its relationship to the government services provided by the state and county. The vast majority of the plan's recommendations for CA facilities and services focus on items that are expansions of service or programs that exist and are within the expertise and ability of CA to implement. Those changes are programmatic and can be done within existing budget constraints.
6 According to the American Community Gardening Association, community gardens create opportunity for recreation, exercise, therapy, and education, stimulate social interaction, and strengthen inter-generational and cross-cultural connections. Having access to garden space enables gardeners to stretch the family budget and enjoy a variety of home-grown nutritious vegetables, berries and melons.Those living in Columbia’s apartments, condominiums, and townhouses have limited ability to garden. The three sites managed by Columbia Gardeners Inc are accessible only to those with their own transportation and become available to only a few new members each year. I propose that the Columbia Association (CA), in collaboration with Howard County, consider whether there may be sufficient available open space for use as a senior community garden(s). A “best practice” model for senior community gardening would provide gardens accessible to seniors, provide affordable land suitable for agriculture, be reasonably secure, promote health and hygiene, integrate gardening with other senior services, and be respectful of environmental and community concerns. Site Access: The site should be close to public transportation, maintenance vehicles and equipment should be able to access the site as well as those delivering supplies (mulch, straw), there should be areas for vehicle parking. Seniors should not have to walk too far to the plots.
(Previous Comment Continued): Land and Water: The site requires clean soil (free of pollutants), daily sunshine (vegetables need at least six hours a day), availability of water close to each plot via easy to use spigots and hoses, a lease or dedicated use agreement for a long duration (five or more years), sufficient size to install 30-60 plots of approximately 20 x 25 feet each with well defined borders the size of railroad ties, along with space for wide paths, and designated areas for composting, garbage, tool storage, and mulch piles. CA would need to determine the minimum number of plots to meet an acceptable cost/benefit ratio and maximum number of plots or gardeners to stay within a manageable size, depending on the site considerations and budget. Security: Seniors who garden need to be safe and secure. Only garden members and maintenance workers should be able to gain access to the site via locked gates and perimeter fencing sufficient to deter theft and wildlife. The site should be adjacent or close to a CA or public building staffed during normal business hours with a receptionist who could be notified to call for police assistance if needed. Only garden members should have keys to access locked tool sheds. Several small sheds containing bins for 10-12 gardeners offer greater security of 2 individual equipment than does one large communal shed. Sheds be dispersed in the site to be in close proximity to plots. Other items to that could be considered to deter theft and promote safety include a mounted security camera and an emergency call box.
(Previous Comment Continued): Health and hygiene: The site should be adjacent or close to a CA or public building, providing gardeners access to chairs they can rest in air conditioned space, restroom facilities, water bottle fill stations/water fountains (similar to those at HCC), and staffed during normal business hours with a receptionist who could be notified to call for medical assistance if needed. Since weather conditions and working in the soil can produce muddy footwear, facilities best suited for use by gardeners might have entrances and separate cooling stations and restrooms for use primarily by gardeners. Receptacles for trash and recycling available in the garden site. Sheds could be constructed with a roof overhang that creates shade for a sitting area. Integration with Senior Services: Having the site adjacent to a Senior Center would provide the added benefit of integrating gardening with other senior program activities and educational activities. One area of the site could be reserved for group educational and/or therapeutic activities. Seniors could contribute the produce they grow to a group meal or cooking classes. Rooms might be available for group education and garden management meetings. Locked file cabinets might be available to store site management files. Membership in the garden and plot assignment could be administered by CA or the Howard County Dept. of Recreation and Parks.
(Previous Comment Continued): Environment and community: The land for site selection would need to consider the impact on the environment, and although local home owners who want to garden may appreciate being able to walk to a community garden, they will not want the installation of an “eyesore” that may decrease property value. If open space that is currently just mowed as a lawn could be identified for use as a community garden, then the creation of a community garden would not need to intrude into wildlife habitats. Also, gardeners tend to plant flowers that benefit birds, bees and other beneficial insects. When the site is constructed, a tall shrub border could be planted on the outside of the perimeter fence surrounding the site to enhance the beauty of the area and cover the “eyesore” of garden plots. Along with Howard County, CA could consider whether one or more of these locations might support the construction of a senior community garden or all ages garden with features needed by seniors: 1. Blandair Park, 2. Oakland Mills: at the corner of White Acre and Stevens Forest Road, 3. Owen Brown: triangle field behind the Owen Brown Community Center, adjacent to the parking lot, between the pool and the ball field, 4. Swansfield Pool: south section between Cedar Lane and Gulfsteam Row, 5. Florence Bain Senior Center: north-west section off parking lot, 6. CA Nautilus Center: north section between Beaverkill Road and Eliot’s Oak Road, 7. Columbia Sports Park: section behind park Columbia Gardeners' successful partnership with Howard County has allowed generations of Columbia residents, including large numbers of older adults, the opportunity to enjoy vegetable gardening. It is understood that additional plots would be readily leased. Locating garden plots on CA open space lands near facilities with a program similar to that developed by the Columbia Gardeners for County property could be a highly beneficial effort if an un-treed site with access to water and parking were found; if residents living in view of the garden were agreeable; and if CA's Board of Directors allocated funds for necessary infrastructure. We will look into this.
7 The morning briefing session demonstrated the presenters knowledge of this planning. I think small discussion groups with the committee members would personalize and clarify many of the comments and suggestions so the committee can understand the experience and perspective of community seniors. I have serious concerns that Columbia is well on the way to being a community divided between the "haves and have-nots" - the socio-economic condition Rouse did not intend. For instance, a regular Package Plan Plus is insufficient too use the new facility.
Thank you. We used small group discussions/focus groups as part of the development of the plan just for the reasons you mentioned. And we do strive to serve the entire community and have an income qualified program in place as well as other programs to extend facility memberships to the widest range of community members.
I am glad CA is undertaking this effort! Thanks for taking into consideration what the older adult community is looking for. I really do want Columbia to be my community for a lifetime. I have a lot of good years left and want to make the most of them. There was a reference to organized walks in the plan. I like this idea for safety reasons. Thank you.
At the 1/13 meeting, I heard two people address the need of another indoor pool or more indoor pool times available to seniors. Interestingly enough, I have heard this request from my daughter. Seems the younger generation has similar needs with a granddaughter on the Clippers another indoor pool would help with practice times and more kids getting on the team. A new pool could pay for itself if it was available for rental - i.e. other swim teams. Have you heard about the program for seniors called "Staying Put"? Information is available at stayingputnc.org.
Thank you. The Aquatics Plan addresses pool needs for the community and makes recommendations about future improvements so we do not address those issues in the Older Adult Plan. Thanks for the tip about Staying Put program.
Heatherfield Condo looks like a disaster area with gutted flooded units. The management moved near Ft. Meade about a year ago and they no longer hold condominium meetings and I am an owner. I am left with limited transportation, people unlike me in many cases (I am from Washington D.C., a career female and single.) I am also Catholic and the complex is everything else. It's too general for the many immediate needs my condominium complex has coupled with my not driving when others do. Thank you. Given your concerns, we suggest you contact your county council representative for assistance.
The goals as outlined purport to cover the needs of Older Adults, however, two of them transportation and aging in place are immediate concerns to a majority of those responding to your outreach. I was surprised to read Ms. Dembner's comments in two newspapers that "CA is not in the transportation business" and "it's not one of the key components of service we provide." However, CA has been providing limited transportation within CA boundaries for some events and the program could be expanded to include transportation to the nine Columbia villages for shopping opportunities for residents. This would help bolster business especially for groceries, haircuts, special items and continuous needs. Also, expansion of transportation to the CA facilities which provide health-related programs such as exercises, swimming, tread mills (if any) would also serve the dual purpose of filling the needs of older adults. I am hopeful that the disconnect between CA's attitude that it is not in the transportation business and the immediate needs of residents for transportation will come to a satisfying conclusion for the residents.. Lastly, a span of ten years seems to me an unduly long time frame to accomplish CA's goals as after five years the original goals may have changed. By prioritizing, and by that I am suggesting, more emphasis is placed on transportation and aging in place immediately or as soon as possible, and the other goals continue at a lesser pace or as soon as personnel or volunteers are in place. Thank you. To clarify, CA is not in the public transportation business, which is within the realm of government services. We do provide financial support to NeighborRide and offer the Senior Event Shuttle. The plan is clear too when it recommends that CA continue to advocate for improved transportation services. By their nature, plans are generally long-range in nature. However, this plan has 50 recommendations and all are to be initiated in the next 4 years. Some will take longer to reach fruition, however. Answers to Questions on the Comment Sheet Almost, but Question/Chapter Yes not there yet No Based on what you've heard tonight or read in the Public Review Draft, is the plan headed in the right direction? 9 8 1 Chapter 1 - Introduction 8 3 Chapter 2 - Planning and Engagement Process 6 2 Chapter 3 - Plan Framework and Recommendations 3 7 2 Chapter 4 - Implementation 4 3 1
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Appendix F
Leadership Howard County Premiere‐‐Community Impact Project 2013
12/11/2013
Community Impact Project Serving Older Adults
Bill Anuszewski, Michael Borkoski, Maura Conley, Jim Johns, Joan Spicknall, Elicia Wood April 2013
1
Table of Contents
Slide #: • Intro…………………………………………………………….. 3 – 5 • Interviews with Older Adults……………………….. 6 – 7 • Older Adults Survey Data………………….…………. 8 – 20 • Benchmark Interview Data………………………….. 21 – 29 ‐‐Needs of Older Adults……………………………….. 24 ‐‐Best Practices in Programs/Services…………… 25 – 26 ‐‐Communications……………………………………….. 27 ‐‐Trends……………………………………………………..… 28 – 29 • Key Findings/Considerations……………………….. 30 - 33
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1 12/11/2013
Background and Objective
The Columbia Association is a private, not-for-profit community service organization that provides social, cultural and recreational programs, facilities and services to the Columbia, Maryland community. The mission of CA is to enhance the lives of people living and working in Columbia.
The LHC Premier CLT (Core Learning Team) for Older Adults was asked to: • Research best practices and existing programs and services for the older adult community • Identify needs of the local older adult community • Identify best practices in programming and service delivery for older adults regionally, nationally and internationally
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What did the “Research” involve?
1. Identifying older adults and expert resources for interviews 2. Conducting interviews with both targets (older adults and experts) 3. Creating survey tools used for both types of interviews 4. Collecting and analyzing the responses
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2 12/11/2013
How did we move through our project?
• Shared our personality/temperaments (Earth, Air, Water, Fire) • Identified and leveraged our strengths throughout the project • Met with the host and established objectives and relationship • Selected a lead person(s) to liaise with CA • Created and followed a project plan • Consistent weekly call • Used technology – a document sharing tool during calls (Elluminate)
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Interviews with Older Adults
• Collected approximately 519 interviews • Of 519, 496 completed all questions • Completed One-on-One in-person interviews and Online tool (Survey Monkey) • Many surveys were also provided at various locations and returned to us
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3 12/11/2013
Interviews with Older Adults
• CA facilities and Village Centers • Athletic Club • Retirement Community - Vantage House • Supermarket - Safeway • Howard County General Latino Wellness Fair • Columbia Foreign Film Society • CJC Jewish Film Festival • Interfaith Center – Oakland Mills • Friends, Family , LHC Premier Class
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Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: # of respondents
Zip Codes of Respondents
31 0 15 Columbia 30 81% 19 21044 13 21045 21046 Clarksville 21029 4% 72 21042 324 21043 Ellicott City Other 9%
Other 6%
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4 12/11/2013
Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Demos Q2 Live in Columbia on property subject to CA annual charge 71%
Q3 Current CA members 56%
Q4 Has lived in the community for 25+ years 56%
Q5 Age group of most respondents – 65 – 74 33% Age group 55 – 54 28% Age group 75 ‐ 84 17%
Q6 Gender Female 66% Male 34% Q7 Ethnicity White 81% African‐American 9% Mixed Ethnicity 10%
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Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Demos
Q8 Does not live alone 73% Q9 Additional household residents age 45 or less ‐0 persons 66% ‐1 person 16%
Q10 Additional household residents older than age 45 ‐2 persons 68% ‐1 person 22%
Q11 Transportation ‐Use their own vehicle 91% ‐Indicated “Other” 4% ‐Howard Transit 2% ‐”Other” majority respondents rely on Vantage House and taxis
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5 12/11/2013
Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data
Q12 Feel like Howard County provides good quality of 72% life for older adults
Q13 Plan to stay in Howard County 91%
Q14 For those not staying: ‐Need a lower cost of living 34% ‐Need to be near family 21% ‐Other 39% ‐‐‐do not live in the county, ‐‐‐need a walkable community ‐‐‐various housing concerns (handling of Section 8 housing, want more land, etc)
Q15 Participate in fitness/wellness activities 87%
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Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Current Fitness Activities (Q16)
Walking 71% Strength Training 42% Fitness Classes 36%
Popular Mentions: Comments of Interest: • Yoga • Rowing • Gardening • Kayaking • Arthritis classes • Delivers pizza • Stationary machines • Bird watching such as treadmill and • Acupuncture elliptical • Nutrition • Physical therapy • Hockey • Racquetball
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6 12/11/2013
Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Current Fitness/Wellness Activities’ participation (Q17 and Q18)
4 – 7 times per week 45% 2 – 3 times per week 41% 1 time per week 10% Never 3% Popular Mentions: Comments of Interest: • Vantage House • Local Neighborhood • Bain Center • HC General Hospital • @ Home • CA facilities too • Lifetime Fitness crowded, cost high, not open at convenient times (re: warm water pool)
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Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Current Social Activities (Q19)
Movies 62% Dining 61% Music/Concerts 52% Popular Mentions: Comments of Interest: • Games: Scrabble, bridge, trivia • Multi‐generational events MD, bingo • • Columbia Community Cooking Exchange • Local gov’t sustainability • Bowling • Grandkids’ activities • Patron school shows • Hiking • Animals
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7 12/11/2013
Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Current Social Activities’ participation (Q20)
4 – 7 times per week 15%
2 – 3 times per week 49%
1 time or less per week 32%
Never 2%
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Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Current Social Activity Places (Q21)
Popular Mentions: Comments of Interest: • Vantage House • Lakefront (concerts, • Bain Center restaurants) • Interfaith Centers • Homes of friends • Church • Poetry readings • Library • 50+ Expo • Howard Community College • HC Drama Learning Center • Columbia Film • HCC 2nd Saturday Cafe Society/Festival
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8 12/11/2013
Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Prefers to participate in activities for older adults (Q22)
Age based community 13%
Intergenerational facility 29%
Both 58%
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Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Programs you would like to see CA provide (Q24)
Popular Mentions:
• Handicapped accessibility and parking
• Transportation
• Transport/Day trips to cultural places and activities outside the county • Discount rate • Part‐time seasonal rate • Pay as you go rate • Resources for maintaining a home (i.e. home improvement partnerships, concierge services – cleaning, yard work, etc, opportunities for downsizing) • Acknowledgement of existing good services and programs
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9 12/11/2013
Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Programs you would like to see CA provide (Q24)
Comments of Interest: • Training for volunteerism and fund raising • Self help groups • High tea • Meet your neighbor parties • Create volunteer organizations for working older adults • Community forums • Longer bike trails • Opportunities to dance and socialize (not a youth club atmosphere) • More interesting classes (bridge, travel, health)
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Interviews with Older Adults – Survey Data: Potential challenges to stay involved in community activities (Q25)
Cost 43%
Transportation 22%
Time 46%
Health/Disability 23%
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10 12/11/2013
Benchmark Interviews with Experts
• 15 Questions • Worked with CA to identify experts and resources in the field • Objective was to get information on programs and services offered to older adults, marketing strategies of these services and current/future trends • 19 interviews completed • 6 made contact however interviews not completed due to lack of response • Many defined older adults at 50+ but for several the definition was 60+ for eligibility for certain services
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Benchmark Interviews • Howard County Senior Centers • Howard County Office on Aging • The Coordinating Center • Dr. Kevin Carlson, MD PA • CA Senior Advisory Committee Member – Rusty Toler • Rockville Jewish Community Center • Howard Community College • Howard County Commission on Aging • Harmony Hall Retirement Community • Vantage House Retirement Community
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11 12/11/2013
Benchmark Interviews • Howard County Mental Health Authority • MD Department of Aging • University of Maryland Baltimore, Gerontology Department • Maryland Gerontological Association • Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Centers Senior Services Department • Erickson Living • Florida Office of Aging • Friendly House, Portland Oregon • CAJA Cergy-Pontoise, France
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Benchmark Interviews – Key Findings: Needs of the Older Adult Community
• Health Care --Physical --Mental/Behavioral --Preventive care --Ability to navigate health care system • Sense of independence and inclusion • Transportation • Physical Fitness • Housing solutions and care
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12 12/11/2013
Benchmark Interviews – Key Findings: Best Practices in Programs and Service Delivery
• Networking with other agencies to coordinate health care for patients • Identify and meet needs of a diverse population (i.e.; ethnic, cultural, socio-economical) (languages, interpreting services, fitness/physical training facilities) • Personalized care for patients • Home and Community based services – funded by the state • Educate, inform and engage staff members • Helplines (i.e., ElderHelp in Florida) • Offer resources and services that make growing older something to look forward to • Independent living concept vs. retirement home
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Benchmark Interviews – Key Findings: Best Practices in Programs and Service Delivery
• Trips and regular local transportation • Connecting people of all ages and backgrounds through quality, educational, recreational and other life-sustaining services • Senior Nutrition Program (JCC of Greater Washington) • Adult Center for Education (spring and fall) • Small, informal groups for learning and socializing • Age 60+ adult students qualify for tuition waivers. Course span across all subject matters. • Address the needs of working and non-working older adults • Caregiver resources and services • No distinction of ages. Allow people to share same passion across borders. (France)
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13 12/11/2013
Benchmark Interviews – Key Findings: Communicating and Promoting
• Meet regularly with interagency committees and agencies • Electronic and print communications • Websites • TV network/local channel for residents • Word of Mouth
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Benchmark Interviews – Key Findings: Developing Trends and Programs over the next 5 – 10 years
• Increase in the number of older adults and those that need services (health care, etc.) • More baby boomers seeking mental health screening and care • Better coordination between PCP and mental health professionals • Better coordination of state and federal funds for health care • Opting for independence • Village concept – a virtual community to provide support for older adults • Community Concierge • Aging in Place • Expanding or renovating assisted living facilities to meet needs • Transportation solutions (including ability to walk) • Expanding existing class programs and services
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14 12/11/2013
Benchmark Interviews – Key Findings: Developing Trends and Programs over the next 5 – 10 years • More older adults in the workplace • “What to do now that you do not have anything to do?” • More older adults in the workplace • Emphasis on physical fitness activities • Differentiate the needs of baby boomers vs. oldest of old • Increase in education regarding needs of and solutions for older adults • Partner with agencies such as MD MVA and MD Dept of Aging for older driver topics and employment respectively • Increased use of technology for aging adults (population gaining more comfort with it) • Better healthy lifestyle choices (healthy eating, fitness, social, aging in place) • Artist and cuisine exchange with Columbia (France)
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Overall Key Findings/Considerations for CA
• Affordable programs/services ¾ Investigate state and federal grants for older adults to offset discounts ¾ Partner with neighboring senior service providers to provide niche
wellness classes-to manage chronic conditions, ie. Parkinson's disease ¾ Continue to evolve remote class offerings to senior living centers ¾ Consider moving select (yoga)mature adult package plan plus classes to package plan for age qualified members.
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15 12/11/2013
Overall Key Findings/Considerations for CA
• Transportation ¾ Advocate for the HC Office of Transportation for comprehensive
transit program
¾ Expand partnerships with other senior services providers for increased strategic coverage (Opting for Independence recommendation)
• Aging in Place/Village Concept ¾ Continue to monitor HC grassroots Senior Village initiative
¾ Define partner role of CA
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Overall Key Findings/Considerations for CA
• Awareness/Education ¾ Promote CA staff awareness of aging related conditions and issues so they can be identified early and proactively managed. (Perhaps an extension of the WINN program) ¾ Participate in regional workshops and networking events.
¾ Combine efforts with other agencies looking at aging. ¾ Continue to evolve remote class offerings at senior living centers. • Diversity ¾ Working with the HC Office on Aging, explore the development and implementation of outreach to and programming and services for distinct populations including the older LGBT community.
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16 12/11/2013
Follow-up Items for CA
• Benchmark for Portland, Oregon Parks and Recreation and Howard County Parks and Recreation pending. CLT will forward once provided. • Link to Friendship House Concierge Services. Friendly House of Portland, Oregon recently launched and is a “village” concept initiative. Feedback and questions should be directed to www.communityconciergepdx.com • Benchmark surveys should be reviewed in detail for additional ideas and best practices.
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Appendix G
50+ Senior EXPO Survey Results
2012 50+ Senior Expo Survey Results Total #%
Age Under 45 years 3 1% 45-54 20 10% 55-64 44 22% 65-74 96 48% 75+ 38 19% Total 201 100% Do you live in Columbia on property subject to the CA annual charge? Yes 131 65% No 55 27% Don’t Know 14 7% Total 200 100% Are you currently a CA Member? (i.e., You pay membership fees to use CA's facilities and programs) Yes 75 37% No 122 61% Total 197 98%
Have you used any of CA's facilities listed below? Please check all that apply Outdoor Pools 78 16% Fitness Clubs 98 20% Fitness Clubs AC 66 13% CG 40 8% SSC 55 11% Hobbit's Glen Golf Club 7 1% Fairway Hills Golf Club 10 2% Swim Center 44 9% SportsPark 17 3% Columbia Art Center 24 5% Other 5 1% None of the above 45 9% Total 489 100% If you are not a CA Member or are not currently using CA's facilities or programs, Don't know where they why not? are 19 12% Don't know how or where to purchase a membership 9 6% No longer physically able to use facilities 6 4% Children no longer living at home 15 9% Don't know how to qualify for a discounted membership and program prices 22 13% Too expensive 40 25% Don't have the time 12 7% Belong to another fitness center 16 10%
Other/None of the above 24 15% Total 163 100% Please indicate your level of use for each of the programs CA offers to Mature Adults Art Center Classes Currently Use 4 5% Have Used 16 18% Might Use 25 28% Unaware Of 43 49% 2012 50+ Senior Expo Survey Results Total #% Total 88 100% Senior Events Shuttle Currently Use 11 12% Have Used 8 9% Might Use 26 28% Unaware Of 47 51% Total 92 100% WINN/New U Currently Use 4 5% Have Used 13 16% Might Use 21 25% Unaware Of 45 54% Total 83 100% Columbia Archives Currently Use 4 5% Have Used 11 14% Might Use 17 22% Unaware Of 45 58% Total 77 100%
Volunteer Center Serving Howard County Currently Use 9 12% Have Used 10 13% Might Use 29 38% Unaware Of 41 53% Total 89 116% Columbia Community Exchange Currently Use 5 6% Have Used 2 2% Might Use 24 30% Unaware Of 50 62% Total 81 100% International Exchange & Multicultural Programs Currently Use 3 4% Have Used 7 9% Might Use 22 29% Unaware Of 45 58% Total 77 100% Fitness Classes Currently Use 38 31% Have Used 31 25% Might Use 29 23% Unaware Of 26 21% Total 124 100% Communication with What would you like to see more of at CA? members and residents 51 21%
More variety of programs, classes and events for mature adults 62 25% More special offers and discounts for classes, memberships, etc. 82 33% More opportunities to be involved in the community (I.e volunteer opportunities, advisory committees) 25 10% Other 28 11% Total 248 100% 2012 50+ Expo Senior Survey Comments: Question 3: Have You Used Any of CA's Facilities? Outdoor Pools & Other Facilities Pool/Facility Total # of Times Listed Bryant Woods 2 Dickinson 4 Dorsey's Hall 1 Faulkner Ridge 1 Hawthorn 2 Hobbit's Glen 6 Hopewell 1 Huntington 1 Jeffers Hill 3 Longfellow 2 Kendall Ridge 5 Locust Park 0 Macgill's Common 1 River Hill 3 Steven's Forest 4 Swansfield 12 Talbott Springs 2 Thunder Hill 1 Other Facility: Aerobic Fitness Class given at Snowden Overlook Clubhouse 1 CoHo Grill 2 Outdoor Tennis Courts 2 Owen Brown Tennis Bubble 2 Time Banking 1 Trails 1 Question 6: What Would You Like To See More of at CA? Please provide "snowbird " memberships, i.e. 6 months, any months during one calendar year. We/I pay too much on fixed income and don't use 6 months. I'd like to see CA dismantled & a fully elected mayoral form of local government adopted. CA costs far too much for far too little. Columbia itself is aging both the population & its infrastructure. It looks shoddy! Get nothing for almost $7000/yr. Too expensive. Serious SR. discount & free for CA assessment over 20 years. Allow grandparents to get memberships w/o giving up their life savings. Remain a homeowners association. As a senior citizen, why are there other places to purchase bus tickets than at the CA or library- since I do not have transportation. I live in Sehorne House in Ellicott City. Would transportation be made available if I became a member? More information for Howard County Residents. I have limited income so would be interested in FREE programs More affordable CA facilities for low to moderate income families or individuals like myself.
To enable current CA Members to suspend annual membership when away for 4-5 months, to extend when returning to MD/Ho Co. $$$ Less expensive activities Not in Columbia for 6 months of the year! Membership on a monthly basis for those of us who also live part of the year out of Maryland. Buses to special events Would like to see snowbird rate for seniors when away from Columbia for extended periods. Many of Columbia's "original" residents are now seniors and wintering in the South, and traveling, during which time they do not use facilities. Verizon has it, why not CA.
Need partial year memberships. Part year memberships for those who are not here part of the year. More places to play tennis. Acknowledgement of member needs-tennis USTA schedule is terrible and prohibitive. A steam room @ Athletic Center. Step Aerobics (more)-its way too limited. Tai Chi with Athletic pool membership Better customer service. VERY disappointed. Don’t have provision for limited memberships for seniors who are out of state some months. Monthly or quarterly memberships. Snowbird-need 7 month membership-not yearly. Part time year membership. Have a continuous walk (paved) all around Lake Kittamaqundi. Have more outdoor restaurant seating along the Lakefront. Do not change from HOA More accessible for individuals with low vision. Someone to share offerings for low vision individuals. Activities for single people to do or meet somewhere. There are too many handicap parking spots in front of many facilities. These spots are mostly empty day or night while the parking lot is crowded. I think to reduce to 2 or 3 handicap parking spots for each facility is enough. PP2 in the sportsclub needs to be monitored more closely since Non-PP2 members enter in without the additional payment. Better rates for seniors. Totally sliding scale fees-disabled Improved/safer paths. Refurbish "tot lots" so they can be used by older adults. Support of Columbia Community Exchange. More senior/long term membership discounts for CA memberships-too expensive! Fix up miniature golf course A membership that can be suspended for a period of time each year. We spend 5 months in Florida each year-it would be helpful to not pay CA dues during those 5 months when we cannot use any of CA services/facilities. Reduce prices for seniors for the health facilities More boot camp style activities for adults above 45 years Coordination with programs advocating "aging in place" such as PATH. Open more classes to Package Plan subscribers, too many classes now require Package Plan Plus for extra fees at the higher cost to seniors. More aqua fitness Moved to 50+ (pay lien) which has outdoor heated pool (May 1-Oct 1), gym. Dog Parks!!
Prices for senior citizens that can compete with the Howard Community College prices Better event scheduling-your meetings on HOA changes, etc were scheduled the night of the Presidential debates. Today a tennis tournament at Wilde Lake + 50+Expo + HCC dragonwagons + Swim Center-all in the same parking lot! Too many CA fitness classes are for Package Plan Plus-regular members have to pay more- more should be open to all members at no additional cost-eg Yoga, Women, Weights & Osteoporosis. Swim Center needs more showers + hooks inside for hanging towels.
Not turn in Locust Park swimming pool into an indoor pool. More literacy for children. Advertise events in Carroll County. Am senior advisor for Town Center currently. 2013 50+ Senior Expo Survey Results Total #%
Age Under 45 years 9 7% 45-54 16 12% 55-64 41 31% 65-74 46 35% 75+ 21 16% Total 133 100% Do you live in Columbia on property subject to the CA annual charge? Yes 85 64% No 42 32% Don’t Know 6 5% Total 133 100% Are you currently a CA Member? (i.e., You pay membership fees to use CA's facilities and programs) Yes 66 50% No 67 50% Total 133 100%
Have you used any of CA's facilities listed below? Please check all that apply Outdoor Pools 61 14% Fitness Clubs 84 19% AC 67 15% CG 44 10% SSC 52 12% Hobbit's Glen Golf Club 12 3% Fairway Hills Golf Club 9 2% Swim Center 38 9% SportsPark 25 6% Columbia Art Center 28 6% Other 5 1% None of the above 19 4% Total 444 100% If you are not a CA Member or are not currently using CA's facilities or programs, Don't know where they why not? are 13 14% Don't know how or where to purchase a membership 5 5% No longer physically able to use facilities 1 1% Children no longer living at home 7 7% Don't know how to qualify for a discounted membership and program prices 5 5% Too expensive 29 31% Don't have the time 11 12% Belong to another fitness center 9 10%
Other/None of the above 14 15% Total 94 100%
Please indicate your level of use for each of the programs CA offers to Mature Adults Art Center Classes Currently Use 3 4% Have Used 9 13% Might Use 25 37% Unaware Of 30 45% Total 67 100% 6 Class Pass Currently Use 3 5% Have Used 3 5% Might Use 15 23% Unaware Of 45 68% Total 66 100% Senior Events Shuttle Currently Use 9 13% Have Used 7 10% Might Use 19 28% Unaware Of 34 49% Total 69 100% WINN/New U Currently Use - 0% Have Used 7 12% Might Use 14 23% Unaware Of 39 65% Total 60 100% Columbia Archives Currently Use 1 2% Have Used 11 17% Might Use 17 27% Unaware Of 35 55% Total 64 100% Volunteer Center Serving Howard County Currently Use 2 3% Have Used 8 12% Might Use 29 43% Unaware Of 28 42% Total 67 100% Columbia Community Exchange Currently Use 3 5% Have Used 1 2% Might Use 17 26% Unaware Of 44 68% Total 65 100% International Exchange & Multicultural Programs Currently Use 3 5% Have Used 4 6% Might Use 13 20% Unaware Of 44 69% Total 64 100% Fitness Classes Currently Use 29 32% Have Used 20 22% Might Use 22 24% Unaware Of 20 22% Total 91 100%
Communication with What would you like to see more of at CA? members and residents 34 18%
More variety of programs, classes and events for mature adults 53 28% More special offers and discounts for classes, memberships, etc. 60 32% More opportunities to be involved in the community (I.e volunteer opportunities, advisory committees) 24 13% Other 15 8% Total 186 100% 2013 50+ Expo Senior Survey Comments:
Question 3: Have You Used Any of CA's Facilities? Outdoor Pools & Other Facilities Pool/Facility Total # of Times Listed Bryant Woods 1 Clemons Crossing 2 Dasher Green 1 Dorsey's Hall 2 Faulkner Ridge 1 Hickory Ridge 1 Hobbit's Glen 3 Hopewell 1 Locust Park 2 Longfellow 2 Owen Brown 1 River Hill 1 Running Brook 3 Steven's Forest 1 Swansfield 5 Other Facility: Skate Arena at Supreme 1 Tennis 3 Question 6: What Would You Like To See More of at CA? Class times should be based on customer/stakeholder needs, not instructors. Need more variety of programs for seniors Get rid of the people who run CA tennis and choose new leadership on voting results of Howard County USTA membership I need more to do. Looks good to me. Thanks. More pool time for Clippers Swim Team. Indoor pool facility for Clippers to use. More senior transportation More walking tours/Columbia history. Perhaps offer more. More spin classes at Athletic Club. Give a contest for lifetime membership open to all of Maryland We moved here two months ago and everything's been great. Please continue to do what you do. Poor response service. Always put on hold-time to talk with someone very poor. Never did call me back last week. Less classes that members have to pay for. Be allowed to use a treadmill with any package plan. After 20 years of being a member, I was asked to renew at the current membership prices. I had brain surgery. More employment opportunities part-time, Supreme Sports Club and Art Center Need to coordinate with Rec/Parks, HCC and HoCo Library. What happened to all the Zumba classes? Drop in? Bokwa is hard on knees. Yoga classes-drop in for seniors
Tennis-why are courts taken up with leagues? We pay for court use and denied. Jazz classes at Columbia Gym Lower fees for CA membership Get all pick up trucks off pathways. They are tearing up grass and leaving huge ruts. Use small vehicles that fit on the asphalt. Else widen pathways. More tai chi and yoga Howard County taxpayers should be included in CA More afternoon classes. Put the indoor classes at Swim Center back to 9:30 time I'd like to get involved in the community but don't know where to call or go More events for kids Add pickleball courts CA Monthly is good to get with Columbia Flier. Thanks. Add badminton Make your activities known in the community Nutrient and personal fitness-need to offer on weekends for business travelers More attention to tennis. There are a lot of us who feel under-represented
Appendix H
Columbia Association Existing Programs, Services and Facilities
Existing Services, Programs and Facilities INTRODUCTION
Columbia Association programs and services continue to evolve and change to meet the needs of the Community. Over the last 15 to 20 years, Columbia Association has introduced programming and services to better serve the older adult population. In 1998, Columbia Association created an Older Adult Activities Coordinator, who developed classes such as Studio Arthritis Exercise Classes, Aqua Arthritis, Masters’ Strength Training Program, Balance and Fall Prevention Classes, initiated the Women, Weights & Osteoporosis program. The coordinator also forged partnerships with the Howard County Office on Aging and the Florence Bain Senior Center. The Older Adult Coordinator position was changed to Sport and Fitness Specialist in 2003 and then to Group Fitness Director to oversee all group fitness classes. The WINN program has had a part time coordinator since 2003. Columbia Association continues to strive to offer programs and services that are attractive to older adults. OLDER ADULT SERVICES, PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES
Senior Advisory Committee
In 1998, Columbia Association created a Senior Advisory Committee to inform CA on the needs and interests of Columbia’s resident’s age 55 and older. The Senior Advisory Committee assisted Columbia Association in disseminating a Needs Assessment of older adults in 2000. Transportation was a major need cited in the needs assessment and Columbia Association created the Senior Events Shuttle in 2000, which provides free evening and weekend rides to cultural events for groups of four or more older adults age 60 and older. A volunteer from the Senior Advisory Committee has assisted in operating the program. Community Grants – Neighbor Ride and 50+EXPO
Through Columbia Association’s community‐grants program, Columbia Association has provided funding to assist in the establishment and maintenance of operations of Neighbor Ride. Columbia Association is also a major sponsor and participant of Howard County’s 50+EXPO. Volunteer Center and Community Exchange
Columbia Association established the Volunteer Center Serving Howard County with other community partners to match needs of volunteers to various non‐profits in the community. Many older adults participate in the disaster volunteer program and orientations. In addition, The Volunteer Center partners with Neighbor Ride to provide discounted rates for older adults using the service to travel to and from volunteer opportunities Columbia Association established the Columbia Community Exchange, a time banking program, in 2007 as a means to assist older adults to age in place and comply with the covenants. This neighbor to neighbor service exchange program helps by having volunteers perform minor home repairs, provide
2 needed rides to appointments, and helps to decrease social isolation. The majority of members in Columbia Community Exchange are 40+ years old. Of the 256 total number of members, 30 percent are 60 years and older. Furthermore, 75 percent of the Hospitality Committee is older adults. In addition, approximately 50 percent of participants (~25 per event) in monthly activities, pot lucks, and workshops are older adults. The Columbia Community Exchange has also been an active participant in the 50+EXPO, WomenFest and other events in the community to recruit new members. Columbia Community Exchange partnered with Computer Seniors of American to train new members on how to use computers at various Howard County senior centers. WINN (When If Not Now) Program
WINN is an eight‐week Introduction to exercise program aimed at older adults. Each participant (“WINNer”) works with a WINN Coach (a Certified Personal Trainer) who assesses the WINNer’s fitness level and goals, develops a customized program, and coaches that WINNer throughout the eight‐week program. Approximately 250 WINNers have completed the program during the past three years. Over 60 percent of WINNers continue regular exercise at Columbia Association facilities. Columbia Art Center
The Art Center’s programming has changed throughout the years to attract older adults. The Salon Series, co‐hosted by Little Patuxent Review, has monthly presentation of artists, musicians, poets, actors and other local specialists. Approximately 15 to 25 older adults are amongst the total in attendance each month. The center’s programming also includes galley receptions and these are also well‐attended by older adults. The FY 13 and early FY14 usage in percentage of Columbia Art Center’s programs and classes by visitors ages 50 and older is 59% for the Spring 2012 session; 55% for the Summer 2012 session; 61% for the Fall 2012 session; 54% for the Winter 2012 session; 55% for the Winter 2013 session; 58% for the Spring 2013 session and 55% for the Summer 2013 session. The session average of adults 50+ that participate in classes is 56%. The top three most popular classes for that age group are; Watercolor (Wednesday and Saturday mornings); Intro and Intermediate Ceramics (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings) and Jewelry‐Making (Thursday mornings). Attendance at the Art Center’s watercolor and ceramics classes is approximately 45 to 50 percent older adults. The Columbia Art Center has developed partnerships with Longwood Senior Center and provides a monthly craft project for approximately 20 residents per month at Longwood Senior Center. The Art Center offers “Off the Beaten Path” field trips, which have been attractive to older adults. These are offered September through June. Archives
The Columbia Archives provides lectures and tours specifically for older adults at retirement and “over 55” housing facilities and at Bain Center .Approximately 300 older adults are served annually in this manner.
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International Exchange and Multi‐Cultural Programs (IEMP)
Older adults are very active in the International Exchange and Multi‐Cultural Programs. Six of the Advisory Committee members are older adults; and sixteen of the eighteen members of the Ghana Sister City Planning Committee are older adults. The cuisine exchange is also very popular among older adults; along with the Culture Café, which has served approximately 80 older adults. Another activity that has attracted older adult participants is the International Book Club, with approximately 25 older adult members. Physician Referral Programs
Columbia Association’s two Physician Referral Programs have been especially attractive to older adults: Fit Beginnings and Columbia Optimal Health. Many of the participants of both programs have been older adults. Overview of Activity and Fitness Classes
Columbia Association offers classes at the Columbia Athletic Club, Columbia Gym, Supreme Sports Club, and the Columbia Swim Center, in the studios and in the indoor pools at the facilities. During the summer, Columbia Association staff members teach outdoor shallow water fitness classes at two outdoor pools from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Fitness classes are open to members age 14 and older. Classes are not differentiated by age but by fitness levels. Classes are described in Columbia Association’s activity guides and members choose to attend based on the description or by experience or personal recommendation. Columbia Association currently offers more than 250 different classes each week taught by a team of approximately 100 certified instructors. In FY 2013, CA taught 12,750 classes with a quarter of a million participants. From observation, it is estimated that approximately 30 percent of those participants were age 50 and older. Columbia Association offers classes 30 to 90 minutes in length and the classes range from a basic level to a more intense and/or intensive level. There is something for everyone. Dance/movement classes have grown over the years. The Zumba program began in 2006, with two classes per week. Today, Columbia Association offers over 15 Zumba classes per week including Zumba, Zumba Gold, Zumba toning, Zumbacircuit, Zumba Basic and Aqua Zumba. Adult members enjoy this dance type class. Body Vive, a low impact cardio dance, balance, and strengthening class, was added in 2007 and is popular with older adults. Mind/Body type classes, including yoga and Pilates, have also seen an increase in demand and more classes have been added. The estimated age of participants in group fitness classes in FY 2013 was based on observation. The classes that attract approximately 75 percent (or higher) older adults include Aqua Arthritis, Aqua Arthritis Plus, Aqua Fitness, Deep Water Aqua Fitness, Zumba Gold, Ai Chi, Qigong, Arthritis Exercise, Tai Chi, Basic Aerobics, Aqua Zumba and Women Weights and Osteoporosis. Classes that are well‐attended by older adults (33‐75 percent of participants) include most Zumba classes, Zumba Circuit, Zumba Toning, Aqua Boot Camp, Basic Aerobics, Body Vive, Aqua Zumba, Belly Dancing and Gentle Yoga. Classes that were attended by some older adult (33 percent or less of participants) include Cycling classes, Body Pump, Express Abs, Pilates and most Yoga I classes.
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All the classes listed on the tables below typically have over 50 percent older adults (age 50 and older): Group Exercise Attendance in Classes Focusing on Older Adults, FY12 FY 12 (May 2011-April 2012) Class TOTAL FY12 Ai Chi 673 Aqua Arthritis 9,903 Aqua Fitness in & outdoor 15,320 Arthritis 444 Ballroom Dancesport 1,588 Basic Aerobics 2,695 Bellydance 194 BodyVive 4,306 Deep Water Fitness 5,605 Gentle Yoga 1,405 Qigong/Tai chi 2,366 willPower&grace 1,216 Women, Weights, Osteo 1,268 Zumba 30,328 Zumba Gold/toning 5,730
TOTAL 83,041
All Group Ex Classes 253,549
% Olde r Adult Cla sse s/All Cla sse s (Atte nda nce ) 33%
Group Exercise Attendance in Classes Focusing on Older Adults, FY13 FY 13 (May 2012-April 2013) Class Total FY13 Ai Chi 794 Aqua Arthritis 9,704 Aqua Fitness indoor & outdoor 15,062 Arthritis 378 Ballroom Dancesport 1,635 Basic Aerobics 2,363 Bellydance 176 BodyVive 4,492 Deep Water Fitness 5,515 Gentle Yoga 1,367 Qigong/Tai chi 2,427 willPower & grace 1,515 Women, Weights and Osteo 1,059 Zumba 30,117 Zumba Gold/toning 5,469
TOTAL 82,073
All Group Ex Classes 249,765
% Olde r Adult Cla sse s/All Cla sse s (Atte nda nce ) 33%
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The therapy pool opened in 2006 and has been very popular with older adults. When the pool first opened, six classes were offered per week. In FY14, two levels of classes are now offered: Aqua Arthritis and Aqua Arthritis Plus with a total of 12 classes per week including Ai Chi once per week. In addition, Columbia Association offers Hydro‐Pilates as a fee based class, which began in FY 2014. It was so popular that a second class was added within a few months. Columbia Association currently partners with Chesapeake Physical and Aquatic Therapy, which provides services at the pool. The use of this pool and demand is anticipated to continue to grow. The group exercise pool at CA’s new Haven on the Lake in Downtown Columbia will help to complement the current aquatics exercise and therapy classes. Columbia Association’s shallow and deep water fitness classes at the three fitness clubs and Swim Center are popular year‐round with older adults. Water fitness classes are especially popular during the summer (late June through mid‐August) when Columbia Association holds aqua fitness classes at outdoor pools. This past summer we had a record attendance of 83 participants in one outdoor class. The morning Deep Water Fitness classes are almost always full. In fall 2013, Columbia Association added the following classes geared to older adults: a second WWO (Women, Weights, and Osteoporosis) class, two combination shallow and deep water classes, an afternoon Aqua Arthritis class, a Body Pump introductory class, and another Joints in Motion class. The WINN (When If Not Now) program, which began in 1997, continues today. It is geared to helping inactive adults age 45 and older become more active with an eight week, Package Plan Plus membership along with five one‐on‐one sessions with a WINN coach. WINN had 250 participants in FY 2013. Golf Programs for Older Adults
Golf is a particularly popular recreational activity for older adults. This is evident as both Hobbit’s Glen and Fairway Hills Senior Leagues that boast many participants with 90 and 95 members respectively. Furthermore, a Senior Division is included in most weekend tournaments and a Senior Club Championship is held each August at Hobbit’s Glen Golf Course. Over 75% of starters, rangers, receptionists, and cart staff at Fairway Hills and Hobbit’s Glen are older adults as well. Tennis Programs for Older Adults Tennis is another program that is popular among older adults. Many older adults regularly participate in all CA Tennis programs, block time and random play time. CA’s USTA League Program is particularly popular among older adults with seven different older adult leagues including Senior Women (50+) 184 Participants, Senior Men (50+) 210 Participants, Senior Mixed Women (50+) 45 Participants, Senior Mixed Men (60+) 47 Participants, Super Senior Mixed Men (60+) 18 Participants, Super Senior Mixed Women (60+) 21 Participants, and the Super Duper Senior Men (60+) 26 Participants. Senior Swim Programs Senior Swim programs are another older adult‐oriented activity provided by the Columbia Association. The majority of Senior Swim programs/times are offered at the Swim Center two days a week. These are offered year‐round. Columbia Association also offers Senior Swim programs/times at selected outdoor pools every summer.
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Appendix I
Columbia Association Membership Information
Membership Details
As of October 2013, out of a total of 61,699 members, 4,175 (7%) are ages 65 and older. (This is total members, not total memberships). Of these 4,175 members, 52 percent are female; 48 percent are male.
Age/Gender 4,845 members are males and 5,339 are females ages 45‐54; 4,476 are males and 3,277 are females ages 55‐64; 1,526 are males and 1,756 are females ages 65‐74; and 467 are males and 426 are females ages 75 and older.
Type of Membership For the data listed below, the numbers are based on the primary member’s age. In addition, the Individual Facility Membership data is based on the three fitness clubs only. The numbers for Package Plan, Package Plan Plus, Hobbit’s Glen and Fairway Hills memberships are counted for each type of membership. For example, if someone has a Package Plan Plus with a Hobbit’s Glen Annual and Fairway Hills Annual added, that person is counted as a Package Plan Plus member, a Hobbit’s Glen Annual member and a Fairway Hills member.
For Package Plan Plus Memberships, 2,942 are males and 3,414 are females ages 45‐54; 1,763 are males and 2,065 are females ages 55‐64; 809 are males and 958 are females ages 65‐74; and 197 are males and 174 are females ages 75 and older.
For Package Plan Memberships, 987 are males and 1,081 are females ages 45‐54; 731 are males and 763 are females ages 55‐64; 432 are males and 477 are females ages 65‐74; and 142 are males and 138 are females ages 75 and older.
For Individual Facility Memberships, 112 are males and 93 are females ages 45‐54; 108 are males and 94 are females ages 55‐64; 90 are males and 92 are females ages 65‐74; and 46 are males and 45 are females ages 75 and older.
For Outdoor Pool/Columbia Swim Center Memberships, 602 are males and 532 are females ages 45‐54; 162 are males and 181 are females ages 55‐64; 61 are males and 88 are females ages 65‐74; and 31 are males and 36 are females ages 75 and older.
For Hobbit’s Glen (annual and weekday) memberships, 58 are males and 16 are females ages 45‐54; 82 are males and 34 are females ages 55‐64; 81 are males and 36 are females ages 65‐ 74; and 31 are males and five are females ages 75 and older.
For CA’s Fairway Hills (annual and weekday) memberships, 19 are males and eight are females ages 45‐54; 34 are males and 11 are females ages 55‐64; 53 are males and 21 are females ages 65‐74; and 16 are males and two are females ages 75 and older.
CA Facility and Programs Usage Please note that the usage data for Columbia SportsPark, Hobbit’s Glen and Fairway Hills Golf Clubs, are based off of Point of Sale data and not Check‐In data as it is for the other facilities because that is how people are entered into the system at those facilities. This means that only the member who is paying for the transaction gets counted, which provides a margin of error in cases where multiple people are paid for by a single person. For example, if a family of four goes to Columbia SportsPark five times over the time period and the husband and wife are both in the 45‐54 demographic, it will only count the wife if she pays all five times.
Columbia Art Center The FY 13 and early FY14 usage in percentage of Columbia Art Center’s programs and classes by visitors ages 50 and older is 59% for the Spring 2012 session; 55% for the Summer 2012 session; 61% for the Fall 2012 session; 54% for the Winter 2012 session; 55% for the Winter 2013 session; 58% for the Spring 2013 session and 55% for the Summer 2013 session.
The session average of adults 50+ that participate in classes is 56%. The top three most popular classes for that age group are; Watercolor; Intro and Intermediate Ceramics and Jewelry‐ Making.
Columbia Athletic Club 428 members ages 45‐54; 566 members ages 55‐64; 477 members ages 65‐74; and 161 members ages 75 and older have used Columbia Athletic Club at least twice per month from May 2013‐October 2013.
Columbia Gym 630 members ages 45‐54; 438 members ages 55‐64; 150 members ages 65‐74; and 36 members ages 75 and older have used Columbia Gym at least twice per month from May 2013‐ October 2013.
Columbia Community Exchange The majority of members in Columbia Community Exchange are 40+ years old.
Columbia Swim Center 25 members ages 45‐54; 44 members ages 55‐64; 35 members ages 65‐74; and 19 members ages 75 and older have used Columbia Swim Center at least twice per month from May 2013‐ October 2013.
Fairway Hills Golf Club: 5 members ages 45‐54; seven members ages 55‐64; nine members ages 65‐74; and three members ages 75 and older have used Fairway Hills Golf Club at least twice per month from May 2013‐October 2013.
Additionally, Fairway Hills offers women’s and men’s leagues to both members and non‐ members. Of the total number of league members for the 2013 Golf League Season, 140 were ages 50+.
Hobbit’s Glen Golf Club 41 members ages 45‐54; 75 members ages 55‐64; 81 members ages 65‐74; and 19 members ages 75 and older have used Hobbit’s Glen Golf Club at least twice per month from May 2013‐ October 2013.
Additionally, Hobbit’s Glen offers women’s and men’s leagues to both members and non‐ members. Of the total number of league members for the 2013 Golf League Season, 130 were ages 50+.
Supreme Sports Club 600 members ages 45‐54; 485 members ages 55‐64; 282 members ages 65‐74; and 72 members ages 75 and older have used Supreme Sports Club at least twice per month from May 2013‐October 2013.
Tennis 17 members ages 45‐54; 22 members ages 55‐64; 36 members ages 65‐74; and five members ages 75 and older have used one of the Tennis facilities at least twice per month from May 2013‐October 2013.
Analysis: Package Plan Plus is the most popular membership type among all age ranges. The majority of CA’s members live in the 20144 and 21045 zip codes. Supreme Sports Club and Columbia Gym have the most frequent usage by adults in the 45‐54 age ranges, but Columbia Athletic Club receives the most usage by adults 55 and older.
With the exception of golf memberships, in the majority of cases, females (in all age ranges) outnumber males in the different membership types.
By age group, the largest number of members is in the 45‐54 age range. This is demonstrated by the type of membership, where the higher number of Package Plan Plus, Package Plan, Individual Facility and Year Round Outdoor Pool/Columbia Swim Center memberships are also in the 45‐54 age range.
Appendix J
Columbia Association Older Adult Marketing and Communication Strategies
Columbia Association Marketing and Communications Communications and marketing methods Columbia Association uses to inform older adults about its programs, services and events include a wide variety of approaches. These include: • ColumbiaAssociation.org/50Plus web page highlighting a variety of events, fitness classes, programs, senior shuttle, Senior Advisory Committee and more • Monthly advertisements in the Beacon Newspaper (New U programs, general Columbia Association advertisements directed to the above web page) • 50+EXPO Sponsor and prominent vendor at this well attended annual event • CA Activities for Mature Adults Brochure: This was created and launched at the 2012 50+EXPO and updated in 2013. It is distributed through The Membership Service Center and different facilities. • CA Activities Guides: All programs, classes, etc. that are designed for the mature adult population are highlighted with an “M”. Additionally the fall 2012 Guide’s back page was the general CA advertisement used in the Beacon Newspaper. • Direct Mailings: In the past, Columbia Association has done targeted direct mailings to the mature adult population for the New U programs. • Print advertisements in Columbia Flier, Howard Magazine, Howard County General Hospital’s Physicians Directory, Beacon Newspaper, Howard County Senior Resource Guide and the 50+EXPO Guide. Topics advertised include the senior membership discount, New U programs, 6 Class Pass, the Open House for the Comprehensive Older Adult Plan, Golf and more. • A print advertisement was also done in the “Social Security Guide” special section in the October 6, 2013 Baltimore Sun. This special section provided information and resources on Social Security benefits for older adults. • Flyers, Handouts, PSAs, ClubComm messages for different fitness classes, senior events shuttle and other venues and events. • Segments on Columbia Matters, CA’s monthly cable TV show. • A landing page of the Senior Events Shuttle was created in fall 2013. This lists the different locations and organizations the Senior Shuttle travels to. It also provides information on upcoming events, contact information and links to the different web sites for each organization. • The Marketing Department had an initial meeting with the Marketing Director and Activities Coordinator for Vantage House and are currently working on a possible partnership to get residents of Vantage House more involved in the community and CA programs.
Appendix K
Howard County and Other Agency Services, Programs and Facilities
HOWARD COUNTY AND OTHER SERVICES, PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES Partnership with Howard County Office on Aging
Columbia Association has created and maintained lasting partnerships with the Howard County Office on Aging by providing some classes throughout the years at various Senior Centers. A liaison from the Office on Aging attends Senior Advisory Committee meetings to share information regarding the Office on Aging’s programs and services.
Columbia Association has a partnership with the Office on Aging’s to support the Home Repair and Modification program. Columbia Association has provided grant funding of approximately $25,000 each year for the past six years. Through Columbia Association funding, the Home Repair program was able to expand services to assist residents to not only age in place but to provide resources to fix exterior maintenance violations in order to comply with the covenants. Columbia Association, the Village Associations, and the Office on Aging have modified exterior alteration application procedures in each village and developed fast track covenant application process for exterior modifications to assist older adult to age in place, such as the development of a fast track process for exterior ramps.
Other Services, Programs and Facilities Howard County Office on Aging: the area agency on aging and the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for Howard County.
The Howard County Office on Aging is an Office within the Howard County Department of Citizens Services, and is the principal agency that plans, advocates, develops and coordinates programs and services for older adults, persons with disabilities (working closely with the County’s ADA Coordinator and Specialist) and their family members. The mission is to promote a full and dignified life for older people and adults with disabilities in Howard County, by promoting healthy aging, supporting the ability of residents to age in place, and providing support to caregivers.
Office on Aging services, includes, but is not limited to the following:
• Senior Centers (seven sites – Bain, East Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Glenwood, Longwood, and North Laurel) • Senior Center Plus (three sites located in the Ellicott City Senior Center, North Laurel 50+ Center and Glenwood 50+ Center)
Maryland Access Point (MAP): is a “gateway” for older adults and individuals with disabilities. It is a statewide resource for information and assistance about long‐term services and supports to allow individuals to remain at home and plan for future needs.
• Senior Care Program: • Medicaid Waiver for Older Adults • Aging in Place Program/Home Repair • Ombudsman/Guardianship
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• Housing Services (Senior Assisted Living and Group Home Subsidy) • State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol) • Health & Wellness, including evidence‐based programs such as Chronic Disease Self‐ Management and Falls Prevention programs, Nutrition Counseling, Post Stroke Exercise Program • Volunteer Opportunities • Public Education • Paws4Comfort (formerly Pets on Wheels) • SPRING Peer Support Groups: The SPRING (Senior Peer Resources: Individuals, Networks & Groups) peer support program was created as an opportunity for older adults to both give and receive support. Programs and activities are designed to nurture interaction among older adult peers to foster a positive outlook, develop social networks, and support a thriving aging process.
Howard County Livable Homes Tax Credit:
Effective December 5, 2012, the Livable Homes County Tax Credit is available for certain types of accessibility features installed in the homeowner’s principal residence.
Howard County Parks and Recreation
Howard County’s Department of Recreation and Parks offers health and wellness programming that provides older adults a range of opportunities for social engagement and physical fitness. Program offerings include outdoor activities and nature trips, customized adventure programs, golf tournaments, therapeutic recreation, exercise and fitness classes, consumer services classes, crafts and fine arts classes, dance lessons, bridge, lessons, and drop‐in recreational clubs. Park facilities that service the general Columbia area include Atholton Park, Blandair Regional Park, Cedar Lane Park, Centennial Park, Clark’s Glen Playground, Dickinson Park, East Columbia Library Park, Huntington Park, Martin Road Park, Middle Patuxent Environmental Area, Patuxent Branch Trail, Sewells Orchard Park and various pathways that transverse Columbia. Howard County’s Department of Parks and Recreation also operates the state‐of‐the‐art Robinson Nature Center in Columbia, and the Blandair Farm historical site.
Howard County Communication and Promotion Outlets
The Howard County Office on Aging uses a number of different ways to make the community aware of and promote older adult programs and service. It publishes the Howard County Resource Guide, which includes information for older adults. It also communicates to the public about older services through the Columbia Flier, the Howard County Beacon, the Official Guide to Howard County, Her Mind Magazine, Howard Magazine, Guide to Retirement Living Sourcebook, the Howard County Physician’s Directory and Howard County Visitor’s Guide. The Office on Aging also advertises in the Howard County Fair Guide, the Coalition of Geriatric Services Directory, and the Association of Community Services Directory.
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Howard County’s Department of Recreation and Parks uses a variety of communication methods to reach the older adult community. It publishes seasonal activity guides throughout the year that list programs and trips geared to those 55 years of age and older and distributes the guides to all Howard County residences. In addition, it publishes news releases in local newspapers, hosts online information and registration at www.howardcountymd.gov/rap, distributes brochures at county senior centers, and direct mailings to past participants.
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Appendix L
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) Analysis
STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS (SWOT) ANALYSIS
About The Analysis
The Columbia Association completed a SWOT analysis to focus on strengths, minimize the weaknesses, address external threats and take the greatest possible advantage of external opportunities.
• Strengths are positive characteristics and attributes that are internal to CA and within its control. These are things that should be maintained, built upon or leveraged. These items are things that CA does well. • Weaknesses ‐ factors or attributes that are internal to CA and within its control that detract from CA’s ability to attain a desired goal. They are things the organization would like to improve, that need to be remedied, changed or stopped. • Opportunities ‐ factors external to CA that exist in social, physical and business environs that can propel the organization in a positive direction. Eventually these opportunities need to be prioritized, built on and optimized. • Threats – factors external to CA, beyond CA’s control, and that could place CA’s ability to serve the Older Adult community at risk. These are things that need to be mitigated or minimized and managed. CA may benefit by having contingency plans to address them should they occur.
SWOT Analysis Highlights Strengths Weaknesses • Expertise and knowledge • Cost of programs vs. tighter budgets • # of current programs/classes (Therapy • Access to transportation to events and pool, etc.) services • Resources ‐ facilities, studios, $, open • Outreach to (and programs for) non‐active space adults • Commitment to serving older adults • Communication about current programs • Local media well‐read by older adults, • Not one designated individual within CA helps our marketing efforts with a high level of • Existence of the Senior Advisory expertise/knowledge/experience working Committee, Resident Speak out with/programming for Older Adults. • Free programs and services and income‐ • Competing needs for limited CA resources qualified opportunities, senior discount, • Lack of awareness and education for CA Earn‐A‐Membership, etc. Team Members relating to serving and • Age‐group representation among CA’s programming for Older Adults decision‐makers • Spreading resources thin ‐ doing • Community partnerships everything for everyone • CA’s brand/image • Broad Mission • Area safety (facilities, lighting, security) • CA’s image (is both negative for some and • Listen to community positive for others) • Evolve programs and adapt accordingly • Perceived lack of value by older residents • Communicate/engagement for assessments levied • Relationship with CA and Villages to create programs, communication
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Opportunities Threats • Facility infrastructure (clubs/villages) • Changing demographics • Standing (Image, Brand) in community ‐ • Diverse set of expectations “Leader” • Mobile society • Village concept • Not adequate housing stock • Very well‐educated retiree • Cost of housing/living costs population/involved • No pensions ‐ financial issues • Rouse vision; mainstream older adults • Long‐term debilitating health issues • Economic contributions; $ • Individuality vs. community cohesiveness • Work with Villages/ARC • Limited ability to reach Older Adults due to • BRAC retirees decline in local media • Community partnerships (Ft. Meade, county) • Greater engagement (volunteerism, activism) • Walkable downtown • Whole Foods • Re‐development Wilde Lake Village and downtown • Working with Older Adult off‐site community (55+ developments) • Use good data that has been gathered to target programs and services • Coordinate offerings with other organizations (ex. Parks and Rec; Office of Aging) • People who are aging in place have been here a while and are familiar with CA
APPRECIATIVE INQUIRY (SOAR concepts applied) In an effort to gain deeper meaning and understanding from the initial SWOT Analysis, an appreciative inquiry was performed applying concepts from the SOAR (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations and Results) model. This process was an important part of the data analysis phase of the planning process and the appreciative inquiry helped inform the recommendations found in this plan. The appreciative inquiry should be an on‐going process that will continue even after this plan is finalized. As it continues it will continue to guide future actions. The information below is a summary of the inquiry into the Strengths and Opportunity sections of the SWOT.
An Inquiry into CA’s existing strengths included asking; what is CA doing really well? Including an expanded look at assets, capabilities and resources, and outlining some of CA’s greatest accomplishments specific to serving older adults?
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What is CA doing really well? What are CA’s Greatest Accomplishments? CA demonstrated commitment to the community • There is an on‐going commitment from CA Leadership to listen and better understand to the needs of older Adults o Senior Advisory Committee (SAC), Resident Speakout, public interest and support for the Comprehensive Plan to Serve Older Adults, focus groups, advisory committees • There is a commitment from CA Management to understand the changing needs of older adults • There is a commitment from CA Management to address the needs of older adults now and into the future through the programs and services CA provides • Representation of older adults on the CA Board, CA Senior Management Team, CA Advisory Committees and among CA’s workforce • Outreach to older adults through 50 Plus Expo, created “Seniors” tab on CA’s website, Older Adult webpage Assets ‐ Expertise and Knowledge • CA possess internal expertise specifically in developing and supporting programming for Older Adults o Arts programs and services o Personal Training (group and 1:1 sessions) o Group Fitness (aquatics and land based) o Volunteer Opportunities (Time Banking, Volunteer Center Services) o Entertainment and Social Activities (Bike About, Historical Walks, Lakefront, etc.) o Therapeutic/Medical Programs & Services (Physical Therapy, Fit Beginnings, Optimal Health) o Nutrition and Diet Counseling • CA possess the internal knowledge (subject matter expertise) specifically in the following fields: o Fitness (personal training, group exercise, aqua fitness, etc.) o Wellness and Nutritional Coaching o Volunteer Management o Emergency Preparedness o Arts Programming o Community Planning and Redevelopment o Construction and Universal Design/Redesign Expertise o Watershed and Energy Management Expertise • Existing pathways that helps connect the community Capabilities ‐ What is it that CA is most capable doing? • Breadth and depth of program offerings
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o CA has a proven track record of providing lots of different programs and services to the older adult community o CA has a proven track record of evolving existing programs and adapting services over time to meet the needs of older adults (Ex: When If Not Now (WINN) fitness program, created Columbia Community Exchange, Time Bank program, Hot Water Therapy Pool, adapted Art Center Classes, etc.) • Creating Relationships/Partnerships o CA has a proven track record of establishing relationships specifically focused at enhancing services and programs for older adults (see examples below under Resources) • ADA and Safety o CA is focused on making appropriate ADA accessible enhancements to facilities, amenities and operational practices o CA has a proven track record of enhancing the safety of facilities and amenities (video cameras, upgraded lighting, landscaping, sidewalks and pathway upgrades, upgrades to aquatics venues specifically for accessibility) Resources – What resources exist that could be harnessed in the future? • Financial resources o CA has a history of strong financial management, experience and fiscal policies that will allow for continued investment in programs, services and facility upgrades specifically for older adults o Reduced rate programs/fees for income qualifying participants o Earn‐A‐membership • Staffing o CA has a diverse and committed workforce that is representative of ALL generations o CA has Communications and Engagement Professionals on the management team • Relationships o With Villages to create programs, communicate and connect with residents o Partner with Covenant Advisors updating covenant guidelines and processes o With Howard County Office on Aging to create programs and communicate with older adults (Ex: CA grant to Howard County Home Repair and Modification program to assist older adults to age in place and comply with the covenants) o With Horizon, Howard County Foundation, ACS, and other non‐profits to coordinate, promote and develop services and programs for older adults An Inquiry into CA’s opportunity areas included asking; how CA can collectively understand the external threats, how we may want to reframe threats into possibilities and how we can best partner with others in the future.
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Understanding Threats • Demographic changes in the community will continue thus requiring CA to adjust and change programming and funding priorities. • Diverse expectations for services, programs and supports will threaten CA’s ability to be everything to everybody. • Increases in both housing and living costs may limit disposable income available for recreational and other life sustaining activities. • The diverse and changing ways community members receive information, poses a threat to CA successfully communicating and engaging with older adults. Opportunities and Possibilities ‐ Harnessing Existing Assets • Address Unmet Needs ‐ Understand WHAT the specific needs really are. • Address Unmet Needs ‐ Plan for those needs that CA is best positioned to address and look specifically at how those needs can be met through CA’s programs, services and facilities • Representation ‐ Continue to foster balance of all generations on the CA Board, CA Senior Management Team, CA Advisory Committees and among CA’s Communication ‐ Utilize internal Communications, Engagement and Marketing expertise and knowledge to more effectively and more strategically connect with older adults • CA’s Internal Expertise and Knowledge o Offer CA’s Community Planning and Redevelopment expertise to the Villages o Share CA’s Construction and Redesign projects and plans with the community o Develop educational programs to inform and educate the community on Watershed and Energy Management best practices. o Facility infrastructure (clubs/villages) Investigate utilizing facilities within village centers for programs as may be in walking distance for older adults o Work with Villages/Architectural Resource Committees Work with the Villages regarding covenant process for exterior home modifications that may be made to assist older adults to age in place o Continue to work towards a more connected system (pathways, bike routes, etc.) for people to move about and around the community. Partnership ‐ Advocate ‐ Support • Support the Senior Village concept o Continue to investigate and determine ways CA can partner with the Village in Howard County o Very well‐educated retiree population/involved who want to remain or become more involved in their community o BRAC retirees
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• Community partnerships (Ft. Meade, county) • Older adults may represent a group of people that are available and eager to help volunteer • Re‐development Wilde Lake Village and downtown • Working with Older Adult off‐site community (55+ developments) • Coordinate, partner and advocate for offerings and services provided by other organizations (ex. Parks and Rec; Office of Aging) • People who are aging in place have been here a while and are familiar with CA This ongoing inquiry into the SWOT will lead CA to better articulate future aspirations and tangible results that will lead to measurable outcomes related to serving older adults.
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Appendix M
Best Cities for Successful Agging – Summary
Milken Institute, July 2012
The Milken Institute had a study done and report prepared on the Best Cities for Successful Aging. The criteria used included general, health care, wellness, living arrangements, transportation/convenience, financial, employment/education, community engagement. Here is a brief summary of highlights from the Miliken Report below.
Successful aging is vitally important to all of us. We all want it for ourselves, and for our parents and grandparents. While each one of us has specific interests, needs, and priorities related to our own aging, at the Milken Institute, we define successful aging in America this way:
We want to live in places that are safe, affordable, and comfortable. We compiled statistics on cost of living, employment growth, jobless rates, income distribution, crime rates, alcoholism, and weather.
We want to be healthy and happy. We looked at a range of factors, including the number of health professionals, hospital beds, long-term hospitals, and facilities with geriatric, Alzheimer’s, dialysis, hospice, and rehabilitation services. We also examined hospital quality and affliation with medical schools. To determine the general wellness of a community, we studied the rates of obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, smoking, and mental illness and looked at the availability of recreation, wellness programs, and other healthy pursuits.
We want to be "nancially secure and part of an economy that enables opportunity and entrepreneurship. We examined each area’s tax burden, small-business growth, poverty levels, and employment rates for those 65-plus, and the number of reverse mortgages.
We want living arrangements that suit our needs. We compiled statistics on the costs of homeownership and rental housing, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health-care providers, and checked for programs that help pay for senior housing.
We want mobility and access to convenient transportation systems that get us where we want and need to go. We studied commute times, fares, the use of and investment in transit for the public and for seniors specially, and the number of grocery stores and other key retailers.
We want to be respected for our wisdom and experience; to be physically, intellectually, and culturally enriched; and to be connected to our families, friends, and communities. We compiled statistics on volunteerism, employment opportunities, and factors relating to encore careers, and we reviewed indicators including access to fitness and recreational facilities, training and education, senior enrichment programs, museums, cultural and religious institutions, libraries, and YMCAs, as well as the proportion of the population 65 and older.
We used all those factors and more to develop our Best Cities for Successful Aging index. The overall rankings are based on eight subcomponents (general indicators, health care, wellness, living arrangements, transportation/convenience, financial well-being, employment/education, and community engagement). Each subcomponent is based on multiple individual indicators– 78 indicators in all.
Appendix N
Older Adult Plan Work Team Charter
Draft Scoope/Approach – July 5, 2012
Comprehensive Plan for Serving the Older Adult Community
Document Existing Conditions
1. Define Trends: Document demographic trends related to the aging of the population as well as other trends that are associated with or that are impacting older adults.
2. Document CA Services, Facilities and Programs. Document current CA services, facilities, and programs that serve older adults and how these have changed over time. Describe how the needs of the aging population are currently addressed in CA programs, services and facilities (not just programs that are ffocused on oolder adults).
3. Document Marketing and Promotion Efforts: Document CA communications, marketing and promotion of services and programs for older adults.
Identify Needs & Best Practices / Analyze Findings
1. Undertake Benchmarking: Conduct benchmarking interviews and research with local, regional and national services and program providers that serve older adults.
2. Solicit Community Ideas. To better understandd the needs of older adult residents, CA will engage the community in a number of ways including small group discussions, public meetings and a telephone suurvey.
3. Analyze SWOT: Undertake an analysis to identify and focus on strengths, minimizee weaknesses, can take greatest advance of external opportunities and address external threats. Identify any gaps in service andd programs that are consistent with CA’s mission and which are best to be undertaken by other providers.
4. Document Findings. Annalyze and document findings and share with the Columbia community and CA Board of Directors.
Develop Plan
1. Develop Draft Plan: Develop recommendations to enhance CA’s programs, facilities and services. Define priorities for changes to existing services or programs provided.
2. Engage with Public. Review the draft plan with the CA Board and the Community.
3. Finalize the Plan. Finalize the plan and develop strategies and priorities to address the needs of older adults within CA’s programs, facilities and services.
ColumbiaAssociation.org/OlderAdults