Comprehensive Plan|AGING IN PLACE

AGING IN PLACE

Over the next 20 years, a significant number of the people who already live in the County, Ball Ground and Waleska will begin their retirement. At the same time, the County and the cities will continue to attract people nearing retirement because of our high quality of life. The demand for specialized senior housing, such as lower maintenance housing options and more walkable and mixed-use environments, will greatly increase as these seniors rely less on the automobile as they age within the community.

The 55+ population county-wide is projected to increase from 12.3% of the population in 2015 to 20.1% in 2040. This projected increase indicates a growing need for housing products that will accommodate active adults and seniors in appropriate locations. New residential development, which has primarily consisted of single-family detached housing, will need to adapt to this growing market segment. New housing products could include varied single-family and multi-family units within planned communities, active adult communities featuring small lot single-family and attached homes with amenities at attractive costs. These homes need to be near retail and services to create a senior lifestyle that is convenient and desirable.

For related policies, implementation strategies and more information on aging in place, please click here.