When my family and I moved here in late 2012, one of the things we would often hear Richmonders say in praise of their city was, "There's so much here for kids." And it is true: We have been bowled over by the amenities, events and services offered for children. But what of those at the other end of the spectrum, the region's seniors?
Richmond and Virginia — indeed, the nation as a whole — are about to experience an unprecedented squeeze on resources and infrastructure, as the baby boomer generation turns 65 and the pension-age population explodes. Health care, transportation and housing are just some of the areas in need of review. So for this issue, Garry Kranz checks in with a number of organizations and businesses for an update on the preparations being made around the region to meet the "age wave" head-on ("All Aboard the Age Wave," page 108).
Another resource previously lacking in the Richmond area for those reaching the end of their lives, whatever their age, was a freestanding hospice facility. That, too, is set to change, as work is scheduled to start this year on the Bon Secours Community Hospice House in Chesterfield County. In "Spreading the Love" (page 114), Joan Tupponce talks to the fundraisers behind the effort, and explores why a facility of this kind is so important, not only for the patients themselves but for the loved ones who are left behind.
With any luck, this important new service, along with those emerging from the Age Wave Readiness Plan, will go a long way to filling the generation gaps in Richmond and beyond.
