NORCs

NORCs are naturally occurring retirement communities. They are communities where individuals either remain through old age, or move when they retire. These communities weren't planned; they just happen. They include neighbourhoods of apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes. As the number of seniors swells, and more and more of us want to age in our homes, we can expect more NORCs to emerge.

What makes for a successful NORC? In New York City, where NORCs have official status, social services and medical care are often right on site. But the real key to success is the community environment. The healthier NORCs are the ones that enable seniors to be more physically and socially active, and foster a sense of community and well-being. All basic needs and amenities are within walking distance. Sidewalks and paths are clean, well-lit, and accessible all year. Residents have easy access to public transit. The area is safe and free of crime. There are opportunities to participate in social and physical activities. People can easily find places to run into one another informally, like apartment building lounges, libraries, parks, and local coffee shops. Local governments and businesses actively respond to the needs of seniors.

We keep hearing (usually from vested interests) about how aging boomers are going to bankrupt the healthcare system. But the healthier we are, the less care we will need. Of course, clinical medicine plays an important role, but we're just beginning to realize the impact of our local environment on health. A successful NORC can affect obesity, mental health, exposure to hazards, risk of falls, and levels of stress. Compared to adding medical or social services, NORCs are a low-cost community approach to promoting healthy aging. Our city government should adopt policies that develop and sustain healthy NORCs.