Healthy Aging

May is Older Americans Month.  Learn more.

Aging doesn’t start at a specific time or age in life. It’s a normal, life-long process. Abilities, strengths and needs change as people reach the age 55 and older.

• The current population of people who have now reached 55 years of age is growing rapidly. For the first time in the county’s history, there are now more older adults in the county than school-age children.
• At the same time this population shift is happening, the current generation of older adults is changing what aging looks like. They are more diverse and active. They want to stay in their homes and communities and contribute to society.
• To have vital, healthy communities, society will need to adapt to these new realities. 
• Learn how Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health's Healthy Aging Initiative is working to maintain and increase the health and wellbeing of Ramsey County residents as they age.

Healthy aging

Healthy aging means keeping and developing the abilities that make health and wellbeing possible in older age, so people can age in the way they want to. Learn more about healthy aging from the World Health Organization.

Aging in place/aging in community

A growing number of older adults want to age in their homes, which has been described as “aging in place.” That idea is evolving into “aging in community,” which recognizes that healthy aging is not an individual process. Government systems, organizational practices, environments and programs impact the ability of older adults to stay in their homes and have choices as they age. Those elements affect some communities inequitably and don’t always recognize the strengths of elders. Communities are stronger when they are more equitable and view older adults as assets.

Livable communities

Livable communities contribute to healthy aging. They are equitable places where residents can thrive as they age. Older adults feel valued, safe and have affordable and accessible housing and transportation options. Livable communities recognize and celebrate the strengths and contributions of older adults. They increase engagement through connections with others. 

People of all ages and abilities benefit when communities enable healthy aging. Sidewalks that are smooth help people who walk with a cane; they also make life easier for someone pushing a stroller. Learn more about livable communities from AARP.