Rosalind Evans
Laguna Beach, California, renowned for its picturesque beaches and coves, is now gaining recognition for its innovative approach to elder care. In a time where the concept of aging in place is gaining momentum, Laguna Beach stands out with its unique program, Lifelong Laguna, aimed at supporting the elderly population in staying comfortably in their homes. This initiative reflects a growing trend among adults preferring to age in familiar environments, bolstered by community support and comprehensive services.
Laguna Beach, with a modest population of 22,600, is a tourist destination and a pioneer in elder care. About 90% of its residents, significantly higher than the national average, wish to age in place, as per Rickie Redman, the director of Lifelong Laguna. This program, rooted in the Village movement, was introduced in 2017 to address the needs of its aging population, particularly as the city grapples with a scarcity of assisted living and memory care services.
The city’s elderly, many of whom have been residents since their youth, contribute to Laguna’s unique artistic heritage. Lifelong Laguna offers a range of services at no cost, including home repairs in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, nutrition counselling, and end-of-life planning, funded through grants and local fundraising.
This model of elder care is being replicated in various cities across the United States, as Manuel Acevedo of Helpful Village noted. According to Jessica Lautz from the National Association of Realtors, the demand for aging in place has also affected the real estate market, with a notable increase in home buyers planning to spend their retirement years in their current homes.
The story of Sylvia Bradshaw, an 84-year-old resident, exemplifies the program’s impact. Lifelong Laguna helped her and her husband maintain their historic home and navigate the complexities of hospice care. Her son, John, expresses immense gratitude for the support that feels like a “second family.”
Laguna Beach’s approach to aging in place offers a blueprint for communities worldwide. As we see a demographic shift toward an aging population, the importance of early planning and realistic expectations cannot be overstated. With the proper community support and practical adjustments to living spaces, aging in place can be a viable and fulfilling option for many. Laguna Beach’s success story is a testament to the power of community in transforming the experience of aging, offering a model that balances independence with interconnectedness.
