The Need

Older residents require more assistance and Collier County is currently unprepared to fully meet these needs. From years-long waitlists for affordable senior housing to isolation, loneliness and depression, our seniors and veterans are struggling. The 2017 community needs assessment reveals the gaps we need to close.

THE FINDINGS

  • 29% of Collier County residents are age 65 and older
  • By 2050, 46% of residents will be 65 and older
  • Over 50% of veterans are 75 and older
  • Older women are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression
  • 3-5 years is the average wait for affordable senior housing

Our Solution

Increase the amount of affordable senior housing

As a leader in a collaborative affordable housing project, we will press for more affordable housing and support services in Golden Gate for both seniors and veterans.

Invest in more comprehensive support services

We will work with the county, local senior centers and the to ensure case management provides comprehensive services — medical, mental health, dental, hearing, legal and more — that seniors and veterans need.

Read “Valuing Valor & Our Elders” – a report on what area experts have to say about the struggles of isolation, loneliness, and depression, and lack of housing and how the Community Foundation will help support affordable housing and invest in case management for our seniors and veterans.

Watch the donor education series discussion with area experts

GIVE BACK

They took care of us. Now it’s our turn. Help us care for our seniors and veterans.