AARP Aging in Place Survey Results

The Importance of Aging in Place: Insights from AARP's 2024 Survey

As Virgin Islands population ages, the desire to "age in place"—remaining in one's home and community as long as possible—continues to grow. According to AARP's 2024 Home and Community Preferences Survey, a striking 75% of adults aged 50 and older express a strong preference for staying in their homes as they age. Similarly, 73% hope to remain in their communities. However, this aspiration is challenged by gaps in housing policies and community infrastructure, which are not yet fully equipped to support aging populations. The Virgin Islands

Key Findings

1. Broad Support for Aging in Place: Older adults are more likely than younger generations to prioritize staying in their homes and communities. By contrast, only 60% of adults aged 18–49 express the same sentiment.

2. Policy and Infrastructure Gaps: Communities often lack affordable, accessible housing options and essential services such as public transportation and health facilities, which are critical for enabling aging in place.

3. Diverse Needs: Accessibility improvements, such as no-step entries and wider doorways, are highly valued, yet many homes lack these features.

The Role of Policy and Community Action

To meet the growing demand for aging in place, local governments and organizations need to adopt policies that address housing affordability, transportation, and healthcare access. Investments in universal design for homes and more walkable, transit-friendly neighborhoods can make a significant difference.

AARP's Call to Action for the Virgin Islands

AARP advocates for improved livability in communities nationwide. In the Virgin Islands, AARP emphasizes that aging in place benefits not just older adults but everyone in the Territory. Livable communities are safer, healthier, and more inclusive for residents of all ages.

The survey underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts between policymakers, businesses, and non-profits to create supportive environments for older adults. Aging in place is not just a personal preference—it's a societal imperative that requires forward-thinking solutions.

For more details on the survey and actionable recommendations, visit AARP's official Aging in Place release and survey results