Appalachia has higher concentration of elderly

The aging population in Appalachia is growing faster than in the rest of the U.S., reports John Raby of The Associated Press. Aging baby boomers are expected to account for one of every five Americans by 2030, but some places in Appalachia have already reached that ratio. According to the 2010 census, more than 15 percent of Appalachia's population is 65 or over, compared with 13 percent nationally. Raby reports the increase in aging increases demand for healthcare, economic assistance, transportation and home health services. (AP photo)

West Virginia's figure is 16 percent, higher than any state but Florida. In Ohio, about one-fourth of the population in 16 counties was 60 or older in 2010, up from three counties in 2000. As in other places, aging people in Appalachia rely on Social Security payments and live on a fixed income, restricting their options for mobility to places with more access to healthcare and other services for older people. However, most elderly in Appalachia don't want to leave the region because of strong ties to their home.

Some organizations are trying to address the increasing elderly population. People Working Cooperatively, a Cincinnati nonprofit, winterizes and conducts minor maintenance on homes for older people in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. President Jock Pitts said the group has experienced a sharp increase in demand for services over the last two years, up to 66,000 from 40,000. The "village" concept, which calls for volunteers and residents to help provide transportation, handyman work and home health care, is spreading into North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. There are designated "retirement zones" in West Virginia where aging people can live and receive affordable housing, health care, education, culture and recreation. (Read more)