Friday, April 12, 2013

Conroy hails legislation to make towns 'senior-friendly'

State Rep. Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour, hailed House passage this week of legislation that would establish a Livable Communities Initiative to help towns become more “senior-friendly” as the population of the state ages.


The legislation, co-sponsored by Conroy, requires the Commission on Aging to establish a Livable Communities Initiative to serve as a forum for best practices and a resource clearinghouse to help municipal and state leaders design communities that allow residents to age in their own homes.

“Connecticut is aging,” Conroy said. “We need to help our cities and towns become more livable for seniors who choose to live at home. 
"The Livable Communities Initiative will be a one-stop resource for municipalities as they wrestle with complex issues like wellness, housing, transportation and public safety for an aging population.” 

According to the Connecticut Commission on Aging Connecticut is the seventh oldest state in the nation, with 507,000 residents over the age of 65. 
The over-65 segment will grow by more than 64 percent between 2006 and 2030--while the population of people 21-64 decreases. 
Conroy will meet CoA Executive Director, Julie Evans Starr on the issue next week.

“I am looking forward to working with the Commission on Aging to begin to plan on how we can address issues affecting seniors in the district,” Conroy said. 

The legislation (HB 6396) awaits action by the state Senate.
  
Conroy, an advanced practice registered nurse, is a member of the legislature's Public Health, Government, Administration & Elections and Education committees.



This information is taken from a press release from Conroy's office.

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