The township is launching the next phase of its Thrive After 55 Senior Needs Assessment, a survey designed to better understand the needs, priorities and experiences of older adults.
The survey will seek information from residents 55 and older and their caregivers, including family members, spouses and loved ones.
“This assessment is an impactful way to hear directly from residents about how to help our senior neighbors,” explained Mayor Dave Fleisher. “Cherry Hill has always valued thoughtful planning and community engagement. We hope to cast a wide net and hear from as many people as possible.”
The grant-funded initiative will help guide policy and infrastructure decisions. Long-term, the Thrive After 55 survey will help the township become an “age-friendly” community, allowing older adults to remain in their homes as they age.
“Age-friendly” describes a global movement to make communities more welcoming and livable for people of all ages. Understanding the value of helping seniors remain in the communities where they established roots, the New Jersey Department of Human Services created Age-Friendly Community Grants to provide resources for advance planning and needs assessments.
The Thrive After 55 Senior Needs Assessment is being conducted by 18 Stones Strategy, a Moorestown-based independent research and consulting firm hired by the township, through Tuesday, March 31. Survey participation is voluntary and designed to preserve confidentiality. It is also available online, by phone and in hard-copy formats.
Residents planning for their own futures, currently aging in place or supporting an older adult are encouraged to participate. A summary of findings will be shared with the community and help guide the next steps in creating an age-friendly action plan.
To learn more and access the survey, visit cherryhillthrive.com/seniors
