Illinois residents are aging – with over 34% above the age of 50 and more than a third are African American/Black, Hispanic/Latino, or Asian American/Pacific Islander. The COVID-19 pandemic’s effects on older adults underscores the need to focus on this group, especially older communities of color.

AARP-Illinois, Americans Advancing Justice – Chicago, Chicago Urban League and The Resurrection Project engaged Loyola University Chicago to conduct a literature review and analysis of existing research and data. Completed by CURL researcher Christine George and SSW faculty Jeanne Sokolec, the resulting report, Disrupt Disparities: Challenges & Solutions for 50+ Illinoisans of Color, includes research briefings on economic security, health, and connectivity as well as policy recommendations.

AARP-Illinois will host a summit in partnership with the Illinois Department on Aging on April 26-27 to engage lawmakers on developing policies to address the problems; partner agencies have meetings planned throughout the state.  The calendar of events is available here.