Partnerships labeled “communities for a lifetime,” built with the aging population as their focus, may be designated in the future.
A new law, signed May 11 by Gov. Tim Pawlenty, lays out plans for the Board on Aging to develop a process for requesting the designation of “communities for a lifetime.” It takes effect Aug. 1, 2009.
Sponsored by Rep. Paul Thissen (DFL-Mpls) and Sen. Kathy Sheran (DFL-Mankato), the law defines the communities as partnerships of small cities, counties, municipalities, charter cities and towns that extends supportive services to those age 65 and older to help them continue to be contributing, civically engaged residents.
“This would allow people to stay in their communities and have access to an array of services,” Thissen said. “We are facing this coming age wave and it’s important we start thinking about it.”
Under the law, “communities for a lifetime” would have to offer opportunities such as:
• the ability to participate in the paid workforce with flexible schedules and hours;
• recreation and wellness activities;
• a variety of affordable, accessible housing options;
• community-wide mobility and access to public transportation, including door-to-door assistance and weekend and evening access; and
• an array of home and community-based services to support seniors’ options to remain in an independent living setting.
The board is to report to the Legislature by Feb. 28, 2010, with recommendations on the process designation and funding sources to implement the communities.
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