25%.
Do you know what that number represents? It’s the percentage of the United States population that is over the age of 55.
Here are a couple of more some statistics from Institute for the Ages that may surprise you:
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By 2050, a third of the U.S. population will be over 55 and 20% will be over 65.
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The population over 80 will be the fastest growing segment of the population for the next 40 years.
Curious about Arlington’s older population? According to the 2009-2013 American Community Survey, 12.7% of Arlington residents are 60 years old or older.
No matter what study you read, you’ll find that senior citizens are the fastest growing population in the country. With that being the case, it’s important for communities to have programs and resources available that benefit this population.
You may not be aware of what in place for senior citizens in Arlington. If you are a senior citizen in Arlington and looking for programs and organizations around town, here a list of resources.
Transportation
Handitran: Handitran, managed by the City of Arlington, is a public transportation service available for senior citizens 65 and over as well as citizens with disabilities. Cost is $2 (cash) per one-way trip. Riders can also opt for a $55 monthly pass which provides unlimited service in a calendar month. A one-time application fee of $10 is also required prior to usage.
Organizations / Social Groups
Age Friendly Arlington: Want to join a group of older adults striving to make Arlington a better place to live? Age Friendly Arlington was started in 2014 to help Arlington’s older residents make friends and a difference around town. The group holds meetings on the second Monday of each month at the Tarrant County Sub Courthouse (700 E. Abram St., Meeting Room, 1st Floor)
Arlington Animal Services’ Golden PAWS Volunteers: Created in October 2010, Golden PAWS, is a senior volunteer group dedicated to providing time and talent in support of Arlington Animal Services. Golden PAWS meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. Volunteers strive to help shelter animals by hand-crafting blankets, toys for dogs, catnip toys for cats, bandanas and more.
Arlington Library: The Arlington Library has a number initiatives for Arlington senior citizens. This include computer classes, book clubs, events and more.
City of Arlington Senior Recreation Centers: Remaining active is a priority for many older adults. City of Arlington has two senior recreation centers. Eunice Activity Center is located at 1000 Eunice Street. The Senior Recreation Center at New York Avenue is located at 2015 Craig Hanking Drive. Both facilities host events such as exercise, arts and crafts, games, computer classes and more.
Senior Citizen Services of Greater Tarrant County: Senior Citizen Services of Greater Tarrant County partners with cities, service providers, and organizations to help senior citizens. Their signature programs include:
- HomeMeds Medication Management
- Matter of Balance Fall Prevention
- Better Choices, Better Health
- Free meal program
- Transportation services
Senior Citizen Discounts
Restaurants: This Arlington Texas Today article shares restaurants in Arlington that offer discounts to senior citizens.
SilverSneakers Program: The SilverSneakers Fitness program is offered to senior citizens through participating health plans. The program allows senior citizens to work out at local fitness centers for free.
Arlington Animal Services ‘Seniors for Seniors’ Donation: The Seniors for Seniors initiative was developed by Arlington Animal Services. The program strives to sponsor a pet at each senior living facility in Arlington where a person is in need of a companion pet and the resident is unable to afford the pet deposit. Anyone can donate towards the program. Donations are tax-deductible.
Additional Resources
American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information: City of Arlington has a ADA Coordinator with its public works and transportation department. If you have a question or complaint about curb ramps and/or sidewalks visit the city’s website or call 817-459-6553.
If you have any questions about resources for senior citizens in Arlington or if we missed something, feel free to let us know in the comment section. We’d be happy to add it to the list!