Longevity is a gift; people are living longer than ever, thanks to medical advances and social improvements. But as our population ages, communities need to adapt proactively. In Connecticut, the transformation is already well underway.
The Numbers: Aging in Connecticut
As of 2023, 19.1% of Connecticut’s population is aged 65 or older.
According to the State Plan on Aging, residents 60 and older make up 23% of the population, approximately 823,529 people, while people 65+ are 17.4%, a figure expected to grow by 57% by 2040. Sources Connecticut General Assembly and Connecticut State Plan.
A more recent report shows that as of 2025, more than 885,000 residents aged 60 or older, nearly 25% of the state’s population, fall within that age range.
Connecticut ranks among the oldest states in the U.S., currently positioned as the 7th oldest by median age. Source Connecticut Department of Public Health and US Census Bureau.
These numbers highlight a consistent upward trajectory in the share of older adults across the state.
Why It Matters Locally
Care at Home Is at Risk: Home-based care has become increasingly essential, yet providers struggle under outdated Medicaid reimbursement models. This puts thousands of seniors at risk of losing needed services. Being a physical therapist in people’s homes, I got to see the complexity of coming home from the hospital and trying to coordinate care; it’s complex and expensive.
Rising Health Disparities: A recent Healthy Aging Data Report emphasizes growing concerns around hip fractures, Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis, depression, arthritis, and readmissions among older adults. Geographic and racial disparities persist, with Black and Native American elders facing higher rates of chronic conditions. Source Connecticut General Assembly.
Strain on Traditional Facilities: Connecticut ranks 4th highest in the nation for residents aged 85 and older, and nursing homes are increasingly viewed as a last resort, not the default. The state is reorienting towards home- and community-based care. Connecticut State Plan, Connecticut General Assembly and Connecticut State Democrats.
A Community Movement: Towns like West Hartford are proactively aiming to become age-friendly, removing barriers, promoting inclusivity, and fostering intergenerational connection. Such initiatives are crucial as older adults begin to outnumber younger residents in many municipalities. The Town of Manchester has invested in UR Community Cares programming to help educate and provide resources for seniors.
Connecting It All: Why Connecticut Must Act Now
Aging in Place: With nearly one in four residents aged 60 or older, enabling seniors to remain independent at home is not optional; it’s essential.
Systemic Fragility: Aging care systems, from Medicaid funding to nursing home capacity, are under significant strain. Without reforms, seniors risk being forced into expensive, institutional care settings.
Health Equity: Disparities in health outcomes necessitate targeted policies and community-level solutions that ensure all older adults, regardless of their race or geographic location, can age safely and healthfully.
Community Willingness: The push toward age-friendly design, technology support centers, and social hubs reflects a readiness among residents and local leaders to build inclusive, longevity-ready communities.
Call to Action: Making Connecticut Longevity-Ready
| ? In-Home Care | Invest in home care services by advocating for fair Medicaid reimbursements and supporting agencies that deliver in-home assistance. |
| ? Increase Accessibility | Promote inclusive, accessible public spaces, tech centers, and social programs that serve as “third places” for older adults to learn, connect, and flourish. Stop by 153 Spruce Street in Manchester to see what we have created. |
| ? Collaboration | Collaborate regionally and locally to create an age-friendly plan, to remove barriers, and build community cohesion across all generations. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to plan how your town can incorporate our programming. We are beginning to teach our tech classes in Avon and Bloomfield in September, and adding Bethany in October. We have our new UR Aging Resources that will be on the road; details coming soon. We are bringing our Neighbors Helping Neighbors to many new towns as well. |
| ? Data | Champion data-driven and equitable health strategies, using resources like the Healthy Aging Data Report to guide local interventions and policy. |
UR Community Cares has a variety of programs to improve the lives of older adults. Join the team of volunteers assisting people in their homes and in the community.
A Personal Reflection on Aging
Aging is a deeply personal journey and unique to each of us. It’s not just about growing older; it’s about how our bodies and minds evolve. Some changes are visible, like graying hair or slower movement, while others are quieter, like shifts in memory, mood, or emotional resilience. Seeing my parents getting ready to head back to Florida makes me sad, but I realize that retirement looks different for everyone and for some, the sun is their medicine.
What makes aging complex is that it touches every part of our being. Physical health can influence mental well-being, and vice versa. A strong body supports an active mind, and a healthy mind helps us stay engaged, joyful, and connected. I will be going to the Manchester Senior Center to visit our Volunteer George, who is a game instructor, and we are going to play Sequence. Let us know if you want to join us on Sept. 8th!
That’s why it’s so important to care for both. Regular movement, nourishing food, and preventive care help us stay physically strong. At the same time, meaningful relationships, mental stimulation, and emotional support are just as vital for our mental health. I am in awe of watching my kids; they never tire. I am now a soccer mom, and I’m loving it. I played a little pickleball with them this weekend, and I’m feeling it!
No matter where you are in your journey, know that your experience matters. Aging isn’t a one-size-fits-all process; it’s a mosaic of moments, challenges, and growth. Let’s honor it by taking care of ourselves and each other. Let me know if you want to see some soccer pics!
Michelle Puzzo, Executive Director
860-430-4557
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