Understanding the Age-Friendly City Framework
An age-friendly city is an inclusive and accessible urban environment that promotes active and healthy aging. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides a globally recognized framework with eight interconnected domains to assess and improve age-friendliness. A city's age-friendliness is measured by its infrastructure and its commitment to fostering respect and social inclusion for its older residents.
Benefits include better public transportation, safer public spaces, and stronger social bonds. A structured approach ensures effective resource use for sustainable change.
The Four-Stage Process to Age-Friendly Status
The journey to becoming an age-friendly city is a continuous cycle of improvement, guided by a four-stage WHO process.
- Planning (Years 1-2): Lay the groundwork by involving older people directly, conducting a baseline assessment of age-friendliness to identify local strengths and barriers, developing a three-year action plan, and identifying indicators for monitoring progress.
- Implementation (Years 3-5): Put the action plan into practice after review and endorsement. Projects may start small with pilot programs before scaling up.
- Progress Evaluation (End of Year 5): Submit a report to the relevant network detailing progress against identified indicators.
- Continual Improvement: Based on evaluation, develop a new action plan for the next cycle to ensure sustained progress and adapt to evolving needs.
Involving Key Stakeholders
Successful initiatives require broad community engagement, including older adults, community organizations, local businesses, and government departments. Co-designing solutions with older adults is crucial. Collaborations with universities, non-profits, and the private sector provide valuable resources.
The Eight Domains of Age-Friendliness
Based on the WHO framework, age-friendly environments address eight key domains.
Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
Focuses on accessible, clean, and safe physical environments. This includes well-maintained public spaces with features like benches and lighting, universal design in buildings, and access to green spaces.
Transportation
Ensures accessible and affordable transportation for independence and social engagement. Key aspects are accessible public transit, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure with safe crosswalks, and subsidized programs for seniors.
Housing
Supports diverse, affordable housing options for aging in place. This involves resources for home modifications, promoting diverse housing models like ADUs and cohousing, and connecting seniors to housing assistance programs.
Social Participation
Provides opportunities for social engagement to combat isolation. This includes community centers and events, such as social clubs and intergenerational activities, in accessible venues.
Respect and Social Inclusion
Fosters an environment that values older adults and challenges ageism. This can be achieved through positive communication campaigns and intergenerational programs.
Civic Participation and Employment
Offers avenues for older adults to remain active contributors through work and volunteering. This involves encouraging flexible employment options and connecting seniors with volunteer opportunities.
Communication and Information
Ensures access to clear, relevant, and accessible information. This includes using accessible formats like large print and digital options, and offering technology access and digital literacy programs.
Community Support and Health Services
Provides robust support services for the health and social needs of older adults. This means accessible health services and in-home support programs like meal delivery.
Comparison: Standard vs. Age-Friendly Community
| Feature | Standard Community | Age-Friendly Community |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Designed for car travel; limited public options. | Accessible public transit, safe crosswalks, benches at stops. |
| Housing | Primarily single-family homes; difficult to adapt. | Diverse, affordable housing (ADUs, subsidized, senior) with accessibility features. |
| Public Spaces | Parks designed for general use; potential mobility barriers. | Parks with paved paths, seating, lighting; accessible buildings. |
| Social Life | Assumed; often requires personal effort to find activities. | Community centers, active social programs, intergenerational events. |
| Information | Standard formats; may not be accessible to all residents. | Multiple formats (large print, digital); clear wayfinding signage. |
The Role of Technology and Public-Private Partnerships
Technology enhances age-friendly initiatives through tools like mobile apps for transit and smart home features for independent living. Public-private partnerships are crucial for securing funding and implementing programs, with grants from foundations and government agencies supplementing municipal budgets. Collaboration ensures a holistic approach.
The Journey to a More Inclusive Future
Becoming an age-friendly city is an ongoing commitment to building an inclusive community. By following the structured WHO framework and engaging older adults, cities can improve health, safety, and social cohesion. Organizations like the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities champion this process. The long-term benefits include reduced social isolation and enhanced quality of life. Addressing the challenges of an aging population requires strategic planning and a shared vision for a community where everyone can thrive.
