News Release

NCD #04-472
December 2, 2004
Contact: Mark S. Quigley
202-272-2004
202-272-2074 TTY
mquigley@ncd.gov

National Council on Disability Calls for a Cohesive Public Policy Agenda for Livable Communities for Adults with Disabilities

WASHINGTON—The National Council on Disability (NCD) today called on the Administration and Congress to develop a cohesive public policy agenda for livable communities for adults with disabilities.

According to NCD Chairperson Lex Frieden, “The advances in America’s policy and programs on behalf of citizens with disabilities have been inspiring. Notwithstanding the individual social policy and legislative achievements of the past 50 years on behalf of Americans with disabilities, however, we need to establish a cohesive public policy agenda in the coming years. We need a common vision, with clear objectives, that speaks to the strength of our commitment to our citizens and the quality of their lives, and one that addresses the challenges facing us in the years ahead.”

Communities in the United States are faced with increasingly difficult choices and decisions about how to grow, plan for change, and improve the quality of life for adults with disabilities as well as elders who may develop disabilities as they grow older. People are living longer lives today than ever before and the population of people aged 65 and older is growing rapidly. One in five people in the United States will be over the age of 65 by 2030. Currently, more than 4.7 million Americans aged 65 years or older have a sensory disability involving sight or hearing, and more than 6.7 million have difficulty going outside the home. As the population of elders grows, it is possible that the number of people aged 65 and older with disabilities will also grow, particularly those 75 years of age and older.

Livable Communities for Adults with Disabilities, NCD’s report, offers a compelling vision for our nation. It articulates the elements of a livable community, highlights existing examples of livable communities in the United States today, which can serve as models for others, and describes how communities can develop and sustain their livability features. The report was developed with the advice of a consumer advisory committee from around the country.

NCD’s recommendations are in line with President Bush’s emphasis in the New Freedom Initiative on community integration, participation, and enhancement of the independence of people with disabilities at home, at work, and throughout the course of their daily lives.

For more information, contact Mark Quigley or Martin Gould at 202-272-2004 or 202-272-2074 TTY.