All should support services for longer, healthier lives

At a time when we bemoan the degradation of our natural resources, it is incumbent on Marin County leadership to look for opportunities to renew and strengthen those resources. Our aging adults are one of them. For the foreseeable future, they may be our only naturally growing resource.

A recently published editorial (“Marin faces growing challenge of `silver tsunami',” Feb. 26), pointed out the importance of learning how to support people in this life stage so Marin will continue to thrive. As a longtime Marin resident and gerontologist, I am heartened to see our county appears ready to grapple with this issue.

I strongly endorse giving the Division of Aging Services a seat at the decision-making table. Close to one in three residents are 60 or older, creating the need for an “aging lens” on a significant number of issues.

Focusing on closing the gaps is essential and will be successfully addressed by recognizing and investing in the potential of the multitudes of healthy, resourceful aging adults who are looking for ways to have a positive impact. The COVID-19 pandemic has uncovered the harmful effects of loneliness and social isolation. Recognizing and respecting individuals of every age and creating multi-generational solutions to current problems needs to be included in the ideation stage of planning for a healthy, vibrant county for all ages.

County supervisors proclaimed 2018 as the “year of the older adult.” I, for one, did not see much impact on the scale of what we can achieve. Although I consider myself to be age-agnostic, I don't limit myself or others based on a chronological number, I'm committed to help make 2023 the year Marin becomes ready for our residents to experience longer, healthier lives. Please join me.

— Barbara Waxman, Kentfield