Old-lanta? The city’s population is aging, and that could be a problem

Atlanta may be a hotbed for tech startups and millennials looking for a slice of Beltline-adjacent life, but that’s not the full story.

According to WABE, Atlanta’s population is rapidly aging; in fact, a report by the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Atlanta Area Agency on Aging notes that by 2030, people over age 60 will make up more than 20 percent of the city’s population.

That’s double what that age demographic is today.

Observers say the needs of an older population could force the city to address wider transportation options to allow accessibility for those who may become less mobile, as well as options for maintaining affordable housing for seniors as they retire from the workforce.

Inman Park has already begun to address those needs, thanks to a $15,000 study that explored creating an “all ages” neighborhood. While the neighborhood scored high marks for serving citizens of all ages, one area that it lacked in was accessible housing for older residents.

As Atlantans get older and the city core becomes denser, expect to see shifting priorities to bolster active living and provide for flexible housing options to appeal to a wider range of ages.

• Atlanta’s Population Is Aging Quickly, And That’s A Big Challenge [WABE]