Shopping in Pasadena (Photo – Staff).
Without a doubt, it can easily be said that Pasadena is a great place to live, but is it a great place to retire?
By Jason Hardin
As an active community volunteer, I decided to find the answer to this question and share my discoveries with all of you.
For the record, the population of persons 60-years-old and older is one of the fastest growing demographics in the state and city. According to the City of Pasadena’s 2014 release of their “Status of Seniors” report, between 1950 and the year 2000, the number of older adults in California grew from 1.6 million to 4.7 million. By 2050, it is projected that the population of adults over 60 will grow to 13.9 million. Basically, since none of us are getting any younger, the demand for senior services, resources, and advocacy will only increase, and it’s up to all of us to prepare.
Similarities and differences
It can be safely stated that the basic needs of senior citizens are the same as that of any adult population; health, housing, nutrition, recreation, transportation, and income. The only difference is that with older age, the chances of health problems and the inability to completely provide for oneself become greater, thus creating a high demand for a wide range of “assistance”. So, where do we find this “assistance” in Pasadena?
Assistance
The primary function of the Pasadena Senior Commission is to advise city council on the needs, concerns, and quality of life for our local seniors. In doing so, they meet with many organizations and individuals that provide valuable services pertaining to seniors and discuss ways to maximize their positive impacts in our community. Using what they know and learn, they then prepare official recommendations that can be implemented in our city’s Senior Master Plan. The entire process is open to the public and participation is strongly encouraged. Senior Commission meetings are a great place to find out about new and existing services.*
Immediate help
60 and older
is one of the fastest
growing demographics
in the city
The nearest local public senior services provider/network is always the best place to begin when looking for immediate help. In Pasadena, the most common of these providers are the Huntington Hospital, Jackie Robinson Community Center, Pasadena Senior Center, Villa Park, and the YWCA. At any of these organizations, you will find valuable information and many other resources that address countless senior needs. The Jackie Robinson Community Center is a favorite for many in Northwest Pasadena and serves as the Pasadena Senior Commission headquarters. Along with Villa Park, JRCC is owned and operated by the City of Pasadena and facilitates advocacy, activity rooms, meals, classes, events, field trips, and many connections to other resources.
Prepare and engage
With so much to do and beautiful weather year-round, Pasadena is and will continue to be a preferred destination to spend one’s golden years. However, with the increasing cost of housing and projected decrease in retirement benefits for the majority of older adults, the challenge is very real. So, for anyone looking forward to a “Rose City” retirement, I truly suggest preparing financially and being more engaged in the decision making process that will determine what resources will be available in the future.
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