Local Villages

[Joe S.]

I have been reading up on local villages. These are basically designed to keep people in their own homes longer. They are also designed to create a better sense of community and volunteerism among all ages. Cooperative efforts mixed with small administrative fees produce low cost access to basic needs and Health care. Discounts are made by local providers for members of the local village. "Helping you helps me" the theory behind support groups may be a driving factor behind the local village movement.

Do you have suggestions, ideas, or thoughts related to this topic?

[Meld256]

Joe,

I hadn't heard of this term, so did a search and found an NPR article. What a wonderful way for people to stay in their own homes and still have their independence! 

Great way for anyone to "give back" to another generation by volunteering, too.

When my parents looked into buying another home a while back, I found there were some great resources through the local Council on Aging.  They had volunteers to help with home maintainence, health care and transportation.  Unfortunately, by this time my parents already needed more help with everything and went into assisted living in a retirement facility.  I must say it is a very caring faciility and they do a great job. If it had been 5-10 years earlier, something like the Local Village would have been a fantastic option.
All in all, this movement is a great idea!!  Somewhat what happens in our family for my MIL. One of us mows the yard, another cleans the floors, I'm in charge of light-bulb changing (those she can't reach) and helping her with some shopping.

Good topic; very interesting...