Recently, LMTAAA asked people who live, work, or help someone in Lewis, Mason and Thurston counties to share what it takes to age well. Nearly 300 people responded, the strongest showing yet for the agency’s Area Plan process which happens every four years. People shared what life looks like as they age, care for others, or try to stay independent. Responses reflect concerns about managing costs, eating well, and remaining in one’s home.
Barriers to Aging Well in Lewis, Mason and Thurston Counties
Early survey findings reveal what’s likely familiar to many. People are helping others while carrying real strain themselves. Answers reveal communities in need of support:
- 47% say the top issue facing older adults is having enough money to live on.
- 37% provide unpaid help or care for a family member, friend or neighbor.
- 25% of those participants are providing 40+ hours of care a week.
- 17% find it challenging to eat nutritious food.
- 86% of those respondents say cost is the top reason why.
- 51% are worried about being able to make repairs that allow them to stay at home.
Your Voice Is Still Important
Your feedback can still be heard. A draft 2027-2030 Area Plan will be available for online comment from June 1-30 at LMTAAA.org.
LMTAAA will also hold a hybrid public hearing on Thursday, June 18 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. It will take place at 2404 Heritage Court SW in Olympia. This will be a chance to provide a public comment in real time.
Want to attend from where you are? A Zoom link will be found on the LMTAAA website. Your participation in the hearing will keep the plan grounded in real life.
Final Steps
The Area Plan is finalized by October then published on the LMTAAA website. Area Agencies on Aging must create Area Plans every four years. The plan is a guide to building supports like meals, caregiving and transportation that solve real community needs.
You can view the current 2024-2027 Area Plan at LMTAAA.org/Area-Plan.
