Smart Growth and Senior Citizens

How Connecticut’s current development is hurting every community . . .

and why smarter growth may be the answer.

created by

The CenterEdge Project

This fact sheet is a brief summary of a translation paper on smart growth, part of a series produced by the Funders’ Network for Smart Growth and Livable Communities. The full papers can be found on the Funders’ Network website, www.fundersnetwork.org

Few Options for Seniors: The Problem

· Senior citizens are hurt by current patterns of growth in both cities and suburbs across the United States.

· Suburban development patterns that prioritize isolated single-family homes offer few options to seniors who need living assistance.

· Lack of public transportation limits seniors’ autonomy and their ability to participate in community life.

Housing

· Seniors benefit from innovative housing arrangements that allow maximum independence while ensuring their access to services they need.

· Accessory apartments to single-family homes, assisted living facilities and multi-unit, mixed-use complexes including commercial and residential components are all viable and attractive options for seniors.

· However, restrictive zoning laws prevent communities from implementing less traditional housing solutions that would better meet seniors’ needs

Mobility and Safety

· Increased dependence on automobile transportation is disadvantageous for those seniors who are less comfortable driving and more prone to accidents.

· In addition, the lack of safe and accessible pedestrian walkways can be especially dangerous for older members of a community.

· The growing isolation of senior citizens places increased burdens on families and friends responsible for their care.

An Opportunity for Positive Change

· Taking into account the unique needs of senior citizens in designing the physical environment in which we live can help make our communities inviting, safe and accessible for residents of all ages.

For more information about smart growth, how it affects your community and what you can do, contact the CenterEdge project.

Office of Urban Affairs, Archdiocese of Hartford

81 Saltonstall Avenue New Haven , CT 06513-4356

Contact Patricia Wallace, 203-777-7279 or Pwallace@oua-adh.org

This fact sheet prepared by Jessica Leight, Project Assistant to the CenterEdge Project.