COPA ~ Collaborative on Positive Aging

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COPA ~ Collaborative on Positive Aging

COPA is a collaboration of representatives from agencies around Sonoma County, independent professionals, and interested members of the public. Our goal is to promote and facilitate positive aging in Sonoma County. To this end, we have joined together to explore ways to capitalize on, and accelerate, national interest in expanding opportunities and options for people in the second half of life. We envision Sonoma County becoming a national leader in the Positive Aging movement.

Do our goals resonate with you? Is this work worth your time and energy? To be successful, we will need your help. We meet on the 3^rd Thursday of every month, 10:30-noon, at the Council on Aging facility. We encourage new members and active participation. Our work to date is summarized below, and thank you to all who participated in our survey. For more information on joining us, please come to a meeting or email information@councilonaging.com

Positive Aging Survey Results 2012

The following chart summarizes findings from a survey on positive aging conducted by COPA during September and October 2012. The survey was conducted online, in print, and at >20 Positive Aging discussion groups conducted at various locations around Sonoma County. It is noted that some themes occur in more than one category, as reflective of the numerous perceptions of the attendees.

THREATS	OPPORTUNITIES
Economics – lack of planning for longevity/uncontrollable external forces Lack of transportation Ageist stereotypes Loss of relationships (existing and new, including intergenerational) Isolation/loneliness Relocation Non-relevancy Insufficient affordable housing Becoming caregivers Becoming a burden to others Family expectations/obligations Health challenges Unemployment/under-employment Environmental barriers Lack of knowledge on optimal aging	Redefine aging - education/reframe aging – positive role models (full range, not just rich, famous, glamorous) Improved physical/social/mental fitness Life review/integration Positive self-perception Reach for personal potential Exploration/new interests, new friends Community connection Intergenerational relationships Mentoring – intergenerational, in both directions Continuing education “Village Neighborhood” concept Preparation for future positive aging Freedom Volunteerism Advocacy (at all societal levels) Define new life-stage at personal level
STRENGTHS	WEAKNESSES
Wisdom/maturity Emotional stability Creative & pioneering spirit of boomers Flexibility Time Positive attitude Family & community support Patience Persistence Good health Courage Ability to contribute	Lack of physical, social, spiritual, mental health Fear & anxiety Negative self-perception Internalized ageism Lack of flexibility Lack of family support Lack of resources to deal with longevity

After discussing thoughts, beliefs and experiences of aging, attendees were asked “What would be most helpful to you in maximizing your own version of positive aging”. The following chart summarizes the responses.

RESOURCES	EDUCATION	MEDIA
Transportation Affordable housing options/senior; multi-generational room-mate referrals Elder corps Link to jobs/cash-flow Barter forum Professional & non-professional vetted referral system Strengthen neighborhood relationships (ex. www.nextdoor.com ) Village concept – community-based membership orgs. (www.vtvnetwork.org )	Early realistic financial planning Positive aging concepts Planning tools for longevity Maintaining good physical & mental health Engage in life-long learning Use of technological advances Social support services navigation	Raise visibility for positive aging Positive & authentic role models
SOCIAL CONNECTION	ADVOCACY
Facilitated discussion groups -learn from collective knowledge & inspire each other Meet & greet likeminded others	Government - local, state, federal Community – nonprofits - private businesses - service clubs - collaboratives

The associated guide, “Resources on Positive Aging”, was assembled by members of the COPA team. It is by no means comprehensive, yet it does provide good inroads to the rapidly-growing body of work in the Positive Aging field.

Resource Guide on Positive Aging, assembled by members of COPA.

COPA ~ Collaborative on Positive Aging

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~Collaborative on Positive Aging

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