Aging in Place 2011 Edition!

The big Aging in Place news in 2010 was the release of Aging in Place 2.0 Rethinking Solutions to the Home Care Challenge. MetLife Mature Marketing Institute published the report I wrote to provide us all a starting point for creating the future. That work will continue this year with the founding of the Aging in Place Institute.

BUT  – Lots of stuff is happening!

This past weekend saw two events connected to the huge Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. One was the Digital Health Summit focused on the emerging market of consumer-based digital health and wellness devices, related applications and services – those gearing up for the future of the medically connected home. The other was the Silvers Summit showcasing products and services that keep boomers engaged, entertained, connected and healthy.

Silvers Summit formed an alliance with AGETEK The Aging Technology Alliance , a non-profit organization that promotes the awareness, benefits and value of products and services for our aging society. The AgeTek folks are so energetic and progressive that excitement flows to all who come near.

This week I am happy and proud to be participating in the first full Universal Design Day associated with NAHB‘s International Builder’s Show with many friends and colleagues.  I’ve worked with NAHB’s 50+ Housing Council educating about and promoting Universal Design for many years. Progress of those ideas, critical tools for Aging is Place, is evidenced by UD DAY! The program has three expert panels- Tech, UD in the Market and Kitchen and Bath Trends, a special luncheon sponsored by Universal Design Day sponsors Whirlpool, Lowe’s Commercial Services, Kohler, Masco Cabinetry and Savaria. There are also expert lead UD tours of the IBS show exhibit floor.

Of course there is a great deal going on throughout the year and all over.

Aging in Place is breakin’ out all OVER!