Understanding the WHO Framework
Based on extensive research with older people worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) developed a framework outlining eight key domains that determine the age-friendliness of an environment. This comprehensive approach recognizes that an individual's well-being is deeply influenced by the physical and social contexts in which they live. A holistic perspective considers the interdependence of these domains, ensuring that improvements in one area support and enhance others.
1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
Age-friendly cities prioritize safe, accessible, and enjoyable outdoor environments. This includes well-maintained parks with ample seating, clean and accessible public restrooms, and green spaces that encourage physical activity and social interaction. Buildings, especially public ones, feature clear signage, ramps, accessible elevators, and non-slip flooring to ensure ease of use for people of all abilities. Good lighting in public spaces promotes safety and confidence, encouraging older adults to spend time outdoors and engage with their community.
2. Transportation
Accessible, affordable, and safe transportation is crucial for older adults' mobility and independence. An age-friendly city offers a range of options, including reliable public transit with features like low-floor boarding and priority seating. The urban environment supports pedestrians with well-maintained, clear sidewalks, sufficient and safe pedestrian crossings with visual and audio cues, and proper street lighting. For those who drive, well-marked roads and visible signage are essential.
3. Housing
Housing is a fundamental domain, as most older adults prefer to age in place. Age-friendly communities provide diverse, affordable housing options that can be adapted to changing needs. This includes universal design principles, which feature things like no-step entrances, wider doorways, and grab bars. Access to affordable home modification and repair services is also vital to help seniors maintain their homes safely.
4. Social Participation
Combating social isolation is a core goal of age-friendly initiatives. Communities offer opportunities for social engagement through accessible and affordable activities at community centers, libraries, and parks. Intergenerational activities, which bring together people of different ages, are particularly valuable for fostering social cohesion and inclusion.
5. Respect and Social Inclusion
This domain focuses on the attitudes and messages of a community towards its older members. An age-friendly environment actively works to combat ageism and foster a culture of respect and inclusion. It promotes intergenerational understanding by creating opportunities for younger and older generations to interact, share knowledge, and build relationships. A key aspect involves ensuring older adults' opinions and experiences are valued.
6. Civic Participation and Employment
Age-friendly communities recognize that older people are a valuable asset and continue to contribute their skills and expertise. They provide opportunities for civic engagement, including volunteering and participating in local decision-making. Additionally, they support flexible employment opportunities for mature jobseekers and encourage employers to adopt age-friendly workplace policies.
7. Communication and Information
Providing clear, accessible, and timely information is crucial for keeping older adults informed and connected. Age-friendly communities use a variety of communication channels to reach older residents, including traditional print media, accessible websites, and direct personal contact. Training for public-facing employees on the communication needs of older adults with disabilities ensures information is inclusive and accessible to everyone.
8. Community Support and Health Services
Accessible, affordable, and coordinated health and community support services are essential for active aging. This includes access to affordable healthcare facilities, home-care services, and wellness programs. An age-friendly community ensures these services are conveniently located and well-publicized, helping seniors live comfortably and with dignity.
Comparing a Traditional vs. Age-Friendly Community
| Feature | Traditional Community | Age-Friendly Community |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | Limited options, often not adaptable; focuses on single-family homes. | Diverse and affordable options, often including universally designed homes, accessory dwelling units, and senior housing. |
| Transportation | Car-centric; public transit may be infrequent, inaccessible, or unreliable. | Range of accessible and affordable options, including frequent transit, paratransit, and safe pedestrian infrastructure. |
| Social Life | Social activities are often informal, limited to private homes or specific clubs. | Community centers, parks, and libraries offer affordable, accessible, and diverse social activities for all ages. |
| Information | Information distributed via a few channels, potentially excluding those without internet access. | Uses multiple channels (print, digital, phone) and employs accessible design principles to ensure everyone is informed. |
| Respect/Inclusion | Potential for unconscious bias or limited intergenerational contact. | Actively promotes intergenerational connections and fights ageism to ensure older people feel valued and respected. |
The Future of Age-Friendly Design
Looking ahead, age-friendly environments are increasingly incorporating technology. Smart-home features and monitoring systems can support independence by mitigating risks and enhancing safety. Additionally, advancements in telecommunication and telehealth services can reduce geographic barriers to accessing health and social support. The integration of these digital solutions, along with sustainable and resilient urban planning, will be crucial for adapting to demographic changes and creating truly inclusive cities. The World Health Organization (WHO) outlines the foundational framework for age-friendly environments in its Global Age-Friendly Cities: A Guide.
Conclusion
What are the key characteristics of age friendly cities and communities a review has shown to be a multi-faceted question with a comprehensive answer rooted in the WHO's eight domains. An age-friendly community is not just a place with older residents but a place that is intentionally designed to support active and healthy aging, benefiting everyone by fostering social connection, physical mobility, and a sense of belonging. The key is a holistic approach that integrates physical and social environments, policies, and services to create vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable communities for all ages.
