Aging doesn't look like it once did...in some ways.
An 81-year old cover model graced the 2023 Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition. Is this a reflection of positive changes in society’s attitudes about aging? Older Americans Month happens in May, and this year’s theme was Aging Unbound, a nod to the shift in so many of the assumptions around seniors and their potential. By the year 2030, 1 in 5 Georgians is expected to be over 60, and the 2000-2030 population shift will see an increase of 96% in Fulton County residents age over 55.
from MarketNSight
Seniors have more options than ever about what aging will look like for them. Organizations are paying attention to the senior community like never before, with opportunities for travel, art, dating, etc. New technologies are helping people live longer and more safely in their homes. Whether living on a cruise ship or right here in North Fulton, the options for aging are limitless, assuming you have the funds.
There hasn’t been as much advancement, however, in the struggles for those on fixed incomes. The average Social Security check in 2023 is just over $1,780 per month. This means the average senior qualifies to rent a home for 30% of their income, or $534 a month. The average 1-bedroom apartment in North Fulton runs about $1,200 a month – more than 67% of average income.
Even among those with other income sources, home ownership, rent, and assisted living options are often costly. The Fulton County average cost of assisted living is $4,047 a month, leaving little in the budget for other essentials like utilities, food, transportation, and medication. Doing the math, it becomes clear that many seniors are at risk of being unable to afford a decent place to live.
As we age, there are a lot of questions and variables. Will I be able to stay in my home? Will I need help to do so? Where will I and/or my caregivers live? Will I be able to stay in my community, near my friends, resources, doctors?
As North Fulton cities become more built-out, with fewer development options, the senior population needs to be represented in community planning conversations. Every 5 years, each city collects citizen input and develops a Comprehensive Plan. What is your city’s plan for growing demand for senior, middle income, and workforce housing?
Alpharetta 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Johns Creek 2018 Comprehensive Plan
Milton 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Mountain Park 2021 Comprehensive Plan