A new study dubs Columbia one of the better cities in the U.S. for seniors to live in. Researchers evaluated more than 350 metro areas when putting together the rankings.
Columbia sits 4th on the list of the best, medium-sized cities for seniors to age in. That list was put together by the Milken Institute, an independent think tank, which looked at factors including healthcare availability, economic strength and recreational activities.
“It’s no surprise to me because of the medical facilities we have here,” said 78-year old Donald Walters at Columbia’s senior center. Columbia scored top marks on geriatric healthcare availability. The city also climbed its way up the list with its strong economy and university affiliations. Both are factors that create jobs, which is something more seniors are having to look for because they’re unable to retire.
Economist Anushya Chatterjee is a study author.
“Through this index we can start sort of a buzz with policy makers, municipal leaders can start thinking where are we now, this is the beginning, and what we can do so that we can make a better city for seniors to live in,” said economist Anushya Chatterjee, one of the study authors.
Columbia did score low in a few areas. The high number of fast food restaurants, the lack of Alzheimer’s units and the few volunteering opportunities all bumped Columbia down the list.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota took the top spot in the smaller metro category, while Provo, Utah claimed it in large metros.