Communities around the country are similarly pondering ways toensure that their aging population can enjoy a greater quality oflife.

California is bracing for explosive growth in its seniorpopulation, which is anticipated to grow from 6 to 9 million by2030. An aging population presents challenges for the nation'slargest state that mirror those faced by the country as awhole.

The Golden State is taking steps to prepare for a grayer future.On Monday Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order creating astate Master Plan for Aging, which calls for stateagencies to analyze the impact of the aging population on theworkforce, the economy and social services.

Related: Washington passes LTC bill: Will other statesfollow?

The plan should serve as a “blueprint for state government,local governments, the private sector and philanthropy to implementstrategies and partnerships that promote healthy aging,” says theexecutive order.

One of the particular concerns cited by the order is the loomingcost of long-term care. The challenge comes from avariety of different directions. First, the sheer size of the babyboomer generation. Second, the fact that a greater percentage ofpeople lack the retirement security to provide for themselvesdecades after retirement, particularly if they require significantcare.

Last month the state legislature approved a similar bill aimedat providing home modifications for seniors and people withdisabilities, such as handbars and grabrails.

Other communities around the country are similarly ponderingways to ensure that their aging population can enjoy a greaterquality of life.

In Austin, Texas, city government is partnering with nonprofitorganizations and local medical providers to set up a senior daycenter that provides free wellness/health services as well asrecreational and social activities for seniors. The model willhopefully offer a cheap, effective way to deliver health care andprovide a place for seniors to connect with neighbors.

Read more: 

• More than half of middle-income elders will not beable to afford housing in 10 years
• Aging population could cut U.S. 2096 output 39%:economists
• Long-term care insurance safety net has hugeholes