The aging population of Hawaii is increasing, more rapidly than any other state. So you could say that Hawaii leads the nation in longevity. Presently, 13.6% of our residents are 65 and older, but by 2020, 25% of us will be 60 years of age or older. What does this mean?

Some call this a "looming crisis." There are not enough nursing home beds even now to accommodate the present needs. More professionals in the aging fields are needed now and in future, because there’s a shortage of nurse's aides, gerontologists, geriatricians, social workers and other professionals. We need more accessible and affordable homes, financial solutions, safer environments for older people, more opportunities for successful aging.

KGMB9 is committed to present all the issues related to aging and caregiving in our state, starting now. The Genius of Aging Campaign has many components. One of these is partnering with business, non-profit, government, grass roots, and education to cover related stories, provide information and resources on air and on this website.

Along with Hawaii's rapidly aging population also comes a great opportunity to work together to create model programs in government and neighborhoods, in schools and hospitals, businesses and organizations, that will present Hawaii as a place that honors our kupuna, and looks hard at the whole picture, good and bad – what is working, and what needs improving.

Who is Dr. Bill Thomas?