Age-Friendly Columbus — Hilltop Comments The content of this page was developed by Age Friendly Columbus: www.agefriendlycolumbus.org
What Did We Hear?
Transportation • Accessibility and ease of public transportation • Health challenges impacted ability and desire to drive • Prefer not to drive at night or during inclement weather • Almost all attendees expressed interest in a Hilltop Senior Circulator (see route on next page) • “I would rather not drive but I feel like I have to.”
A P P E N DI X
Housing • Most reported increased challenges with home upkeep as they age • Nearly all expressed interest in a service to connect seniors to affordable and reliable service providers
Unmet Needs Identified
Transportation • Mix of drivers and non-drivers; those not driving rely on a mix of family and friends, public transportation and formal service providers • Lack of sidewalks and lighting limit travel • General frustration with the current COTA routes within community, many feel routes do not align well with their intended travel • “My weekly hair appointment is just as important as my medical appointments.” Housing • Repairs needed to homes cost more than value of home • Need more affordable living options in community • “Sometimes you pray for a disaster so you can get the money from insurance.” 168
Safety • Overall perception of safety by residents was mixed; some feel safe, while others do not Social Engagement • Biggest barriers to socialization reported: transportation and awareness • Despite most attendees reporting being social regularly, they were interested in more opportunities to connect with the community
Safety • Nearly every attendee has been a victim of crime or witnessed crime in their community • Concerns over vacant and abandoned homes • Regular dumping in alleys near homes • Lack of street lights • Concerns over drug use in the community • “The crime is getting so bad, it makes me want to move.” Social Engagement • Attendees were interested in a wide variety of opportunities that would provide more engagement and community connection, including day trips, arts and crafts classes, and free community meals
Age-Friendly Strategies Previously Identified “We deserve the same resources as everyone else.” • Strategy 3: Increase walkability of sidewalks and streets Strategy 4: Encourage the use of multi-modal • transportation options • Strategy 5: Empower older adults to prepare their homes to safely age in place
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Strategy 6: Increase access to programs and information that allow older adults to age in the community Strategy 12: Increase access to information, through a variety of community channels