Title

Aging In Community Program Helps Older Adults Stay in Their Homes Longer

Relevance

{"ops":[{"attributes":{"color":"#000000"},"insert":"North Dakota is faced with unique challenges in caring for and about its older residents. Two-thirds of its counties are designated as frontier (less than six residents per mile). A documented shift of the state’s population from rural counties to urban areas has resulted in a higher proportion of older adults in small towns and sparsely populated locations. Between 2019 and 2029, the state’s older population (age 65 years and older) is projected to increase by 32%. In contrast, the working-age population (age 20 to 64) is projected to decrease from 59% of the total population in 2016 to 55% in 2029, placing additional burdens on a critical workforce shortage. The state’s budget has been constrained by slumping economies in its major industries: agriculture and oil production. In addition, the serious consequences from the COVID-19 pandemic have placed undue burdens on the state’s economy and its people. Clearly, older adults in rural areas are vulnerable. Assuring North Dakota is a good place to live and age well is a complex problem needing an integrated and collaborative solution."},{"insert":"\n"}]}

Response

{"ops":[{"insert":"The North Dakota Aging in Community (AIC) project is an initiative to address the unique needs of older adults aging in rural communities. The goal is to use a local community-based approach to help older residents stay in their rural homes and communities. The project is being implemented in two rural communities: the Lisbon area and western Morton County. AIC staff are offering a number of services and supports to address gaps or unmet needs in their respective communities. \n"}]}

Results

{"ops":[{"insert":"In 2024, the program reached 4,270 community members. AIC clients agree that AIC is making a positive impact on their lives. Top indicated impacts include feeling more connected to resources in the community (85%), gaining valuable knowledge (84%), improved quality of life (80%), and feeling more confident living at home (86%). For every $1 spent, the state of North Dakota potentially saved $308 in Medicaid costs.\n\nAIC’s community partners report high satisfaction with their partnership with AIC and desire to sustain these partnerships. Community partners report that the AIC program makes a significant, positive impact on the community by meeting previously unmet needs, and 100% rate the program positively. A strong majority (96%) indicate AIC has fostered client quality of life, safety, and ease of aging-in-place. 96% would recommend the program to older adults in the community. 91% of community partners report that AIC is successfully building connections within the community.\n"}]}

Public Value Statement

{"ops":[{"insert":"Empowering older adults in rural communities to live safely, independently and comfortably in their own homes allows for a higher quality of life, strengthens communities and saves the state resources.\n"}]}

Primary Focus Area

Youth, Family, & Communities

Secondary Focus Area

Nutrition & Health

Tags

Primary Funding Source

Non-Profit Grants & Contracts

Secondary Funding Source

None Selected

Urban Impact Statement

Submission Year

2024

Submitter is Point of Contact

Primary Contact Name

Jane Strommen

Primary Contact Email

jane.strommen@ndsu.edu

Integrated Impact Statement

Integrated With

None Selected

Statement Synopsis

The North Dakota Aging in Community (AIC) project supports older adults in rural areas by addressing gaps in services and fostering connections to help them age in place with confidence and dignity. Implemented in Lisbon and western Morton County, the program offers tailored resources to meet the unique needs of these communities. In 2024, AIC reached 4,270 residents, significantly improving quality of life, access to resources, and confidence in aging at home. For every $1 spent, the program potentially saved $308 in Medicaid costs. Community partners praise AIC for its transformative impact, with 100% rating the program positively and 96% recommending it to older adults. By enhancing safety, well-being, and community integration, AIC is a vital initiative for rural aging.

Resource Links

None