In a startling turn of events, the Portland metro is aging faster than the rest of the country, leaving many unprepared for the tsunami about to crash on our coast. But, in the middle of this imminent crisis, an innovative community-based movement is offering a lifeline to seniors hoping to age peacefully in their own homes.
New data released in July by the U.S. Census Bureau show that between April 2020 and July 2023, the percentage of older adults in Portland increased by 10.1%, while the working-age population dropped by 6% and the number of children aged 1-14 decreased sharply by 7.5%. And this is just the start. Oregon's aging population is not expected to peak until 2050. However, the numbers show the greying wave of Portland, where the 65-and-older population is growing faster than the US average.
"The state's low fertility rates combined with the rising life expectancy contribute to the trend", said Neal Marquez, forecast manager at Portland State University's Population Centre. The result? A rapidly aging population that threatens to overwhelm underprepared social services.
Seniors have serious needs around affordable housing, food security, mental health, and physical health. And the demand for these is skyrocketing! Callers to 211info, a state-wide social service referral hotline, routinely reach out for a range of additional services beyond affordable housing. The Community for Positive Aging sees five-to-ten new clients requesting specialized assistance every week. But, amidst this looming crisis, a beacon of hope emerges - the Village Movement. This innovative network of volunteers is providing critical services to help seniors age gracefully in their homes - a top priority for 69% of older adults, according to a recent national poll. Almost two-thirds of seniors cited lack of transportation and access to medical care as major barriers to health. Their ability to attend appointments, obtain necessary treatments, and manage chronic conditions can be limited or restricted for a variety of reasons, the major one being lack of available drivers through public or private transportation sources. Becoming a member of one of the 500 existing and developing Villages nationwide can help fill this gap by providing transportation services, and many more.
Jane Foreman, the 74-year-old Chair of the UpRiver Village Steering Council, said, "Being part of a Village is a game changer. I have been struggling with basic needs and feeling isolated, but now I have a whole community of friends helping, and my independence is back". The Village Movement is not just about practical support - it's about connecting with people by bringing vibrant communities together to combat loneliness and cultural barriers.
The Portland area is already home to 10 existing Villages. Now, a new Village is taking root to serve seniors in the area of Gresham, Troutdale, Fairview and Wood Village. UpRiver Village aims to support older adults with services that allow them to thrive in their own homes. It currently offers many social activities which are open to the public.
UpRiver Village is seeking volunteers to help with organizational development, marketing, volunteer and event management and tech support. It's ability to launch and serve seniors depends entirely on community involvement.
Interested in contributing to the growing Village Movement? Reach out to UpRiver Village at contact@uprivervillage.org or 503-489-8813 to learn how you can help ride the grey wave and ensure our seniors age with dignity and joy.