There are senior centers in Columbia, as well as housing developments specifically for older adults — but what about a village?
‘Villages’ — which are not neighborhoods or villages as we generally know them, but more like nonprofit groups — have been established in places such as in Beacon Hill in Boston and in Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. And it is an idea that will be pondered for Columbia and Howard County at an informational meeting on Thursday, Nov. 8, from 10 a.m. to noon at Linden Hall in the Dorsey’s Search Village Center, located at 4765 Dorsey Hall Drive in Ellicott City. The discussion, titled “The ‘Village’: A New Concept in Aging,” is being hosted by Columbia Association’s (CA) Senior Advisory Committee.
The idea of a ‘village’ appeals to those who want to stay in their home as they grow older, be independent and self-sufficient as they age, and remain connected to their community and an active participant in their golden years. A decade ago, for example, the seniors of Beacon Hill came together and formed a ‘village,’ building a community of like-minded individuals that provided social connections, information, events and support services to help them grow old at home.
The Nov. 8 meeting will have speakers from another local example, Capitol Hill Village. All are welcome to attend, and no reservations are required. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call Mary McGraw at 410-740-8152.
CA Today 