"Austin has fallen behind cities of a similar size when it comes to caring for its elders. It's no longer in AARP's top 10 cities to live in for older adults as of 2022. In fact, last year, it didn't even make the top 25. That might not be top of mind, as the median age in Austin, TX is 34.5, and only about 10 percent of Austinites are over 65."
"According to a October 14 memo from Austin Public Health Director Adrienne Sturrup to Council on its progress, that will require more funding. "While significant progress has been made, the effective and ongoing implementation of these initiatives is dependent on identifying and securing additional resources and budget across various departments," wrote Sturrup. The Parks and Recreation Department already spends over $2.8 million on senior programming."
Austin has declined in its ranking for older adult livability, falling out of AARP's top 25 in 2022. The city's median age is 34.5 and about 10 percent of residents are over 65, yet adults aged 65–74 were the fastest-growing cohort from 2010 to 2020. City Council directed the city manager to improve senior services, and a memo from public health leadership indicates additional funding is required. Parks and Recreation currently spends over $2.8 million but plans cite the need for 18 full-time senior programmers and four marketing staff at nearly $2 million annually. A 2016 Age Friendly Action Plan exists, but a 2022 auditor survey found large gaps.
Read at Austin Monitor
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