As Chairperson of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging, I am elated that Gov. Perdue has directed the Council to be a significant part of an “Aging Assessment Team” that will help examine North Carolina’s readiness for the aging of our population.
As Gov. Perdue noted in her Executive Order, North Carolina is undergoing a major demographic shift that sees our 2.4 million “baby boomers” representing more than a quarter of our current population, and with 30 of North Carolina’s counties having more persons age 60 and older than persons age 17 and younger.
By 2029, more counties are expected to face this situation. As Governor Perdue concludes, “it is vitally important that North Carolina be well prepared to meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of an aging population.”
The Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging looks forward to working with the Division of Aging and Adult Services of the Department of Health and Human Services and with the University of North Carolina Institute on Aging in undertaking this assessment. The assessment process will begin with a look at the readiness of state agencies and then move to working with local governments as well.
This is an exciting opportunity in our efforts to build a more livable and senior-friendly North Carolina. On behalf of the Governor’s Advisory Council, I want to express appreciation for the Governor’s leadership in boldly undertaking this initiative.