Aspects of a livable community: An extensive survey of seniors and community members in Kingsport, Tennessee

“A Livable Community Survey of the Greater Kingsport, TN Area” was one of 15 pilot AARP projects in 2009. It was the only mail-out survey, with 16 pages of questions covering aspects of community design and services, neighborhood issues, and personal concerns related to public health and aging. Of the population surveyed (AARP members and general public), 1,439 people returned surveys for a combined 43.6% response rate. Innovative approaches that contributed to this phenomenal response rate to such a lengthy survey included: local citizens were involved as an initial focus group and, later, as a pre-test pilot group for the survey instrument; an extensive local publicity campaign was developed; a customized mailing envelope was printed. A supplemental survey of community residents was distributed to various groups in the Greater Kingsport area. This included key leadership groups, such as the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, Board of Education, Chamber of Commerce, United Way, along with announced survey pick up sites at various locations throughout the community. Major survey findings included: Community concerns: good job opportunities, urban vegetable gardens, bus stops with benches and shelters, lack of sidewalks, attractive entranceways into community, well designed and maintained streets, affordable housing, and clean air. Neighborhood concerns: lack of sidewalks, a grocery store within walking distance, community recreation centers and parks. Personal concerns: health care affordability, remaining independent, safety and security, staying physically active, and home modification needs. A detailed handout of our methodology and publicity campaign will be provided.