FACILITIES CATER TO NEEDS OF AGING POPULATION

How fortunate Cape Girardeau is to have several fine facilities to care for our elderly.

The issue becomes more important as our local population, along with that of the rest of the country, becomes older due to improved medical care and healthier lifestyles. More than 11,500 city residents are age 55 and older, according to the 2000 census.

At least two facilities have found a high-demand service to offer: cottages or apartments for those who want a smaller home to care for and proximity to more care when needed.

Both the Lutheran Home and Chateau Girardeau offer various levels of retirement housing, including independent living, assisted living and skilled care. That means residents can be certain they will be cared for as they age.

And those who take advantage of the services are bravely recognizing what is inevitable for virtually all of us and doing something to be sure they spend their golden years comfortably.