Serving Seniors, Strengthening Community

Greatest Generation, Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, Generation Z, Generation Alpha: no matter what age demographic you are in, there’s a trend that affects us all. We are all getting older. Not just individually, but as a society.

The World Health Organization reports that every country in the world is seeing growth in the number and proportion of older persons in the population. This is happening on a local level, too. In Virginia, the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service reports that 1 in 5 Virginians will be over 65 years by 2030.

The fact that people are living longer is positive news, but with it, comes a need to be prepared.

Henrico County Public Library is thinking ahead. At recent Staff Development days, the team heard from speakers on the topic of “Serving Seniors.” The fact is, no matter if we are age 65+ or if we have friends and family who are, we can all benefit from resources geared toward older adults.

One of the first speakers was Henrico’s Advocate for the Aging, Ashlee Giles. She leads the Older Adult Services department with Henrico Outreach and Engagement. According to Giles, eighteen percent of Henrico residents are age 65+. One quarter of these older adults live alone. For a variety of reasons, many people are staying in their homes, also known as “aging in place.” This has broad-ranging implications regarding transportation needs, health care, and general well-being, with impacts across our community.

Giles’ office not only serves Henrico residents 60 and older, but also their family members and caregivers. If you or anyone you know falls into that category, be sure to also check out the Caregiver Resources section on their homepage. The page has helpful resources and you can access their most recent newsletter.

Barry Trott, Adult Services Consultant with Library of Virginia, was another key speaker. Trott outlined some of the challenges facing adults 65+ and the ways libraries, including Henrico County Public Library, are meeting these needs.

SOCIAL CONNECTION

Trott’s presentation focused on the importance of libraries as a third place for older adults. A "third place" is an informal public space separate from home (the first place) and school or work (the second place) where people can socialize, relax, and build community.

There has been considerable attention to the fact that loneliness is a major issue in our society today. This is acute among older adults, especially with so many living alone. Library programs can help foster connections—they cover a spectrum of interests for all skill levels, they bring people together, and best of all, they are free. Search Henrico Library’s Programs and Events calendar online or view a PDF of the Program Guide to learn more about upcoming programs.

And for those who care for older adults experiencing memory loss, try one of our caregiver kits. These kits provide stimulating materials around engaging topics like history, food, and music, and are designed to help you kick off a conversation and foster a connection with loved ones.

ACCESSIBILITY

Sometimes, all the information on a website can be overwhelming. That’s why Henrico Library has a special “Seniors” section on its homepage, linking to reading suggestions, resources, and news and programs conveniently curated for older adults.

The Seniors page also connects to the library’s digital collections and content. Libraries have long been in the business of delivering digital content, but sometimes we forget just how convenient this is for those with limited mobility or transportation issues. Another advantage of digital content and ebooks is font sizes can be enlarged. With a free library card, there’s a never-ending source for learning, engagement, and entertainment.

For those who prefer to hold a book in their hands, the library has some services to make it easier. Using your online account, you can put a hold on books and materials. We even have drive-up windows to pick up your items at all of our Area Libraries. Many books are available in large print as well.

TECHNOLOGY

Although many people have broadband, not everyone does. In addition to being places where people can go for computer access, libraries also provide devices such as hotspots for checkout.

Libraries have always played an important role in providing training and access to digital materials. Trott shared that one-eighth of Virginians age 65+ are still in the workforce. Libraries serve a critical role in offering job and career tools and one-on-one assistance. Many people still do not realize free tech training is available. For example, Henrico Library offers computer classes and programs in its Digital Media Labs.

FACT-BASED INFORMATION

We are living in a world of information overload, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents even more challenges as we seek out reliable information. Libraries are on the front line in offering fact-based resources and information. Henrico Library provides access to many online databases covering important topics, including health, investing, news, legal forms, and more.

Henrico County Public Library is helping older adults and their caregivers navigate this stage of life with confidence. As the speakers reminded us, strong relationships are at the heart of healthy communities, and Henrico Library is committed to building those relationships for years to come.