Community and Aging

[Page 361]Community and aging bring up a range of issues related to self-efficacy and general quality of life for older adults. With substantial increases in average life expectancy over the past century and exponential growth in the part of the population aged 65 years or older, there is an increased need for services, products, activities, and environments designed to support older adults within our communities. Diverse family structures, changes in family patterns, and economic issues add further complexities. While there is still a need for long-term care and skilled nursing facilities, contemporary perspectives on community and aging also aim to highlight asset-based approaches and address the challenges of loneliness, boredom, and isolation related to institutions, as well as the costs associated with housing and medical ...