Recent data shows the Austin-Round Rock metropolitan statistical area, or MSA, hosts the fastest-growing population in the country of residents ages 55-64. Residents age 65 and older made up 8 percent of the Austin-Round Rock MSA's population in 2010 but are predicted to make up 20 percent of the population by 2040.
Local forecasters have dubbed this demographic shift the silver tsunami, and the area's public and private sectors have been preparing to address issues related to an aging population, such as health, housing and transportation.In 2013 the Austin Mayor's Task Force on Aging produced recommendations on the topic, including age-inclusive policies, focusing on affordable housing and integrating seniors into civic life.
The South Austin housing market continues to grow, with several multifamily projects under construction. However, most are considered market-rate or luxury developments; few new or proposed properties are considered affordable housing, according to real estate reports.
In the Southwest Austin area, new developments, such as retirement community Elan Southpark Meadows, Legacy Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care and independent- and assisted-living apartment complex Ledgestone Senior Living, are slated to open in the next few years.
Medical practices have opened South Austin locations to cater to new patients.
Meanwhile, as resources spring up to serve them, some of today's older residents are concerned about affordability and transportation.
Elaine Benton, an officer in the South Austin chapter of the AARP, said many older residents live on fixed incomes.
"People have spoken to me with issues such as, 'Do I buy my pills, or do I eat a balanced meal?'" she said.
Future housing
In Southwest Austin, Titan Senior Living is billing Elan Southpark Meadows, a 111-unit development off Slaughter Lane, as a resort-style retirement community with amenities such as a restaurant, salon, spa, wellness center and concierge services, according to a statement.
President David Dronet said Elan should open in early 2016.
"We saw the opportunity to serve seniors and their families and exceed expectations for what senior living could be," he said.
Civitas Senior Living LLC is scheduled to begin building Ledgestone Senior Living in June and finish in fall 2016.
Wayne Powell, president of Civitas Senior Living, said Ledgestone would include 120 independent-living apartments, 60 assisted-living studio suites and one-bedroom units, and 10 memory-care units near Dripping Springs.
Staying active
The South Austin Senior Activity Center on Manchaca Road serves 150 to 600 people per day, Recreation Program Supervisor Angela Niemiec said.
The center hosts tai chi, Zumba and line-dancing classes as well as diabetes and financial-planning classes.
"When I first started, most of the people coming in were age 75 [and older]," she said. "Now we have a lot more younger, active programs. We have a walking club, hiking, kayaking and yoga."
