41 |
P a g e
guidelines. The percentage of older people meeting the physical activity guidelines decreased
with age, ranging from 14% among people age 65–74 to 4% among people age 85 and over.
In Virginia, 3.3% of children live in households with a grandparent as their primary caregiver.
In Chesapeake in 2012, 3,050 persons where grandparents raising grandchildren.
24
In 2010, 46% of older men and 31% of older women reported trouble hearing. The percentage
of older Americans with trouble hearing was higher for people age 85 and over (59%) than for
people age 65–74 (31%). 11% of all older women and 18% of all older men reported having
ever worn a hearing aid. Difficulty hearing impacts daily activities such as shopping,
socialization, family communication.
28
One segment of the community that represents potential unique population needs is veterans.
The number of 65 and older veterans in Chesapeake is projected to grow from 8,200 in 2012
to 16,000 in 2040.
29
In older veterans, PTSD and dementia are often mistaken resulting in less
effective treatment. It is estimated that 21% of veterans suffer from PTSD making them more
likely to have challenges in maintaining quality of life.
For seniors, there are actions that can be taken to improve their quality of life so that they can
maintain their maximum potential for contributing to and living in our community.
Action Item 5.1
–
Improve caregiver health and well-being
. Support parents and children
in their caregiver roles throughout their stages of life.
Develop support and respite programs for persons caring for older persons in their
home.
Develop support for grandparents taking care of their grandchildren including assistance
with obtaining benefits, respite, and other support systems.
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
18,000
2012
2020
2030
2040
Chesapeake Veteran Population Projection
with PTSD
85+
65-84
