AARP Honored by New Castle County Council
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-12-13 17:02:17.306249-05:00
AARP's Delaware office has been honored by Resolution from New Castle County Council. The Resolution acknowledges and thanks AARP for working with New Castle County to create environments for successful aging within livable communities. Delaware State Director Lucretia Young accepted the Resolution during the recent County Council session.
New Castle County statistics show that it is home to 7,447 senior citizen owned households earning less than 50% of income for housing and many of which would be substantially burdened by the cost of housing rehabilitation. Additionally, this number is expected to increase from 12% to 21% of the County's population by 2030.
In response to this impending challenge, Young approached the New Castle County Department of Community Services and initiated a partnership between AARP and the Department, resulting in a substantial decrease in the number of seniors awaiting home repair through their program. "Home modifications such installation of outside ramps, grab bars in bath areas, and increased entry ways, can greatly increase an individual's ability to age with their home and in place much longer. This is a key variable in successful aging" says Rita Landgraf, AARP State President.
AARP Delaware was also active during spring 2007 in advocating for the successful amendment to New Castle County's zoning regulations allowing for an increase in affordable housing options for seniors, by allowing home owners to build Accessory Dwelling Units on their properties. AARP is grateful to New Castle County for having the "vision" for positive change. The state office appreciates the recognition and will continue to work on issues that positively impact the citizens of Delaware.
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