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Aging Strategic Plan Goals There are real and significant implications to the aging of the Baby Boomer population. By working now to commit public, private and community resources, we can help older adults meet their future needs. The Aging Strategic Plan task force determined two primary goals related to how Cabarrus County can most effectively serve the aging community. It is important to note in relation to these goals, however, that County management and staff will not be able to provide services and programs for this growing population without external support. The Aging Strategic Plan incorporates collaboration with outside agencies and partners who serve the interests of adults ages 65 and older. The primary goals of the Aging Strategic Plan are to identify, evaluate and collaborate on programs and services and to raise awareness for what Cabarrus County has to offer for the aging population. The first step in understanding the community's needs was through distribution of an unscientific community survey in English and Spanish. Over a three -week period, individuals could take the survey at any branch of the Cabarrus County Public Library, Cabarrus County parks, senior centers and administrative offices, at local YMCA locations, at the 2013 Cabarrus County Fair and online through the Cabarrus County website. There were no age restrictions for survey participants; however, 79 percent of respondents who provided their age indicated they were 55 or older. The 244 survey respondents provided useful feedback and guidance for the overall planning process. Complete survey results are attached as Appendix A. Who will benefit from the plan The plan design focuses on Cabarrus County residents ages 65 and older. The distinction is based on the age requirements for federal programs, including Medicare and full payment of Social Security. Age 65 is also considered a monumental age for research data, including the Census. Since a major focus of the plan is on prevention, the task force believes that early outreach and education can have a positive and significant impact on future behaviors. Including residents ages 55 -64 as a secondary audience can potentially change their health outcomes and also positively impact their understanding of issues experienced by their parents and older adults for whom they care. Following a similar structure, the Older Americans Act pertains to ages 60 and older, and AARP includes ages 50 and older. The third audience that could benefit from the strategic plan is caregivers throughout our community. The plan includes information, resources and opportunities that can help meet the needs and expand the understanding of professional and amateur caregivers as they serve older adults in Cabarrus County. 3.17.14 DRAFT Cabarrus County Aging Strategic Plan E 1 -2 Page 81