While looking for information on Forum Discussion Groups on the Club Express site, I discovered that they offer a tailored account for something they call Aging-in-Place Villages. These are not real estate subdivisions; they are virtual communities that support seniors who live in housing that is not owned by a managed community. In other words, it's a group of people who have banded together in an online network of mutual support.
The network vets the services these folks need, organizes volunteers, schedules services, and performs many of the services and functions that our managed residential communities provide. I asked ChatGPT to brief me on the concept and provide some examples and here is the response.
ChatGPT:
Aging in Place Villages are grassroots, member-driven organizations designed to help older adults remain in their homes and communities as they age. These villages provide a network of support through social connections, shared resources, and access to vetted services, enabling seniors to maintain independence while improving quality of life.
Key Features of Aging in Place Villages
1.Membership Model:
- Villages often operate as membership organizations, requiring an annual fee. Membership fees fund operations, such as staffing, events, and service coordination.
- Some villages offer sliding-scale fees to ensure affordability.
2.Services Provided:
- Assistance with daily tasks, such as transportation, grocery shopping, or home maintenance.
- Access to a network of vetted service providers, including home health aides, contractors, and handymen.
- Social activities and programs to reduce isolation, such as book clubs, educational events, and fitness classes.
3.Volunteer Support:
- Many villages rely heavily on member-volunteers who assist with tasks like driving, companionship, or minor home repairs.
4.Virtual and In-Person Elements:
- Villages may use digital platforms to connect members, schedule services, and provide information.
- Some operate primarily as virtual communities, while others include in-person hubs or offices.
5.Interconnected Networks:
- Villages often collaborate regionally or nationally, sharing best practices and resources. Examples include the Village to Village Network, which supports the development and sustainability of villages worldwide.
Examples of Aging in Place Villages
1. Beacon Hill Village (Boston, MA)
- One of the first Aging in Place Villages, established in 2002.
- Provides a robust network of services and activities for older adults in the Boston area.
- Offers concierge-style coordination for transportation, home care, and cultural outings.
2. Capitol Hill Village (Washington, DC)
- Provides services such as health advocacy, home support, and transportation.
- Hosts educational seminars, walking tours, and fitness classes.
- Strong focus on fostering community engagement and addressing social isolation.
3. Ashby Village (Berkeley, CA)
- Serves older adults in the East Bay area with services like tech support, home safety evaluations, and volunteer rides.
- Engages members with interest groups, intergenerational programming, and opportunities for volunteering.
4. North Shore Village Network (Evanston, IL)
- A regional model that connects multiple smaller villages.
- Offers shared resources, collective events, and increased reach for members in suburban Chicago.
Interconnected Networks
The Village to Village Network (VtVN) is a notable umbrella organization supporting villages worldwide. It provides:
- Training and toolkits for starting villages.
- A platform for villages to exchange ideas and troubleshoot common issues.
- Advocacy for policies that benefit aging in place.
Benefits of Aging in Place Villages
- Independence: Members maintain control over their lives while aging.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Villages are less expensive than moving to assisted living or retirement communities.
- Community Connection: Villages reduce loneliness and foster interdependence among members.
- Customizable Services: Members access tailored services that meet their individual needs.
Challenges
- Sustainability: Villages often depend on membership dues and volunteer labor, which can fluctuate.
- Equity: Ensuring access for lower-income members remains a challenge.
- Scalability: Expanding services while maintaining personal connection is complex.