Hawaii's population continues to age - not just in Honolulu, but around the state.

On the valley isle, unique steps are being taken to accommodate our seniors.

You will find Hale Mahaolu on the internet - an affordable housing project for seniors that incorporates more than just housing because of an agreement with the department of housing and urban development.

"And we were able to do an adult day care. and that has sort of taken off and it's a good idea because it brought together Old friends, sometimes. And new friends...so it made for good synergy," said Roy Katsuda.

That socialization at adult day care centers, like this one on Oahu, makes a tremendous difference in the lives of seniors. But that is just a part of the program for seniors there.

"We have our high-functioning, inter-generational program at another facility. And we have our sundowning program that goes on Friday nights to 8:30 for those individuals that are suffering from dementia and the families are having a hard time with them," said Sandy Freeman.
Having a safe environment for their loved ones on a Friday night can mean a lot to families.

"Have not been able to go out for a dinner for a long time and this allows them to go out for a dinner knowing that their loved ones are being cared for. great peace of mind," said Katsuda.

Hale Mahaolu, a non-profit housing corporation has another site planned soon for Kihei.

"And that's going to be a fairly large aging in place, it will have an adult day care center, a senior center, and eventually a residential care home," said Katsuda.

Aging in place - if all a senior needs is help with a bath, it could mean not going to a nursing home.

"Well, baths don't cost seven, eight thousand dollars a month. So i think we can improve on that. Most people have just a higher quality of life when they live, continue to live in their homes," said Katsuda.