Professor of Psychology Danielle Gagne contributes to story on aging in place
Danielle Gagne, professor of psychology at Alfred University, was interviewed for a story that appeared in the online publication of the popular television program, “This Old House.” The story discusses the challenges faced by older Americans who wish to remain living in traditional homes.
“This Old House” is an Emmy Award-winning television show focusing on home improvement, which also publishes a printed magazine and online versions of its content. The story—“Aging in Place: Can Older Americans Afford To Stay in Their Homes?”—appeared on the program’s digital platform on November 18. It discusses a survey of 1,000 Americans 65 or older about their plans, priorities, and perspectives on aging in place.
“America’s older population is growing faster than ever—the U.S. Census Bureau reports that the population aged 65 and over is growing five times faster than the country’s total population,” the story reads. “As the elderly population grows, the availability of affordable housing that meets their unique needs—such as accessibility, proximity to healthcare, and social support—becomes increasingly important.”
Gagne teaches introductory and advanced courses for Alfred University’s psychology and gerontology programs on topics such as ageism, the psychology of death and dying, and cognition and aging. For a Q&A portion of the story for “This Old House,” she answered questions on tips for older adults wishing to age in place, and the challenges the country faces in providing adequate housing and care to a growing number of senior citizens.