The WHO Age-Friendly Framework: A Blueprint for Community Wellbeing
The World Health Organization (WHO) developed its Global Age-Friendly Cities Project in 2006 to provide a framework for creating supportive environments for older adults. This initiative emphasizes that physical and social environments significantly impact health and wellbeing in older age. The framework provides a guide for communities to improve age-friendliness across eight key, interconnected domains.
1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
This domain focuses on accessible and safe public areas. Key aspects include well-maintained sidewalks, public seating, lighting, accessible toilets, and building entrances to ensure easy navigation for all ages and abilities. Prioritizing walkable neighborhoods allows seniors to remain active and socially engaged.
2. Transportation
Safe, affordable, and reliable transportation is vital for older adults' independence and community connection. This domain covers walking, public transportation, and driving. Features include safe crosswalks, accessible public transit, clear signage, and services for transitioning from driving. Effective transportation prevents social isolation and ensures access to services.
3. Housing
Affordable, secure, and appropriate housing is essential. This domain includes options for aging in place, such as home modifications and universal design. It also addresses the availability of diverse housing options to meet various needs and financial situations.
4. Social Participation
To combat loneliness and isolation, this domain focuses on creating opportunities for social connection. This involves accessible and affordable social and recreational activities, community centers, and libraries. Offering multi-generational programs helps seniors stay connected.
5. Respect and Social Inclusion
Feeling respected and valued is crucial for older adults' wellbeing. This domain aims to combat ageism and promote inclusion through intergenerational programs, anti-stereotype campaigns, and ensuring seniors' voices are heard in decision-making.
6. Civic Participation and Employment
Many older adults wish to remain active through volunteering or work. This domain creates opportunities for engagement without discrimination, promoting flexible employment, senior career events, and volunteerism.
7. Communication and Information
Access to reliable and easy-to-understand information is essential. This domain focuses on providing information through accessible formats, including senior-friendly websites, print newsletters, and community announcements.
8. Community Support and Health Services
Comprehensive and accessible health and support services are fundamental. This domain covers access to clinics, health programs, in-home care, and mental health services. It emphasizes preventative care and a supportive network.
Creating an Age-Friendly Community: A Comparison
| Feature | Non-Age-Friendly Community | Age-Friendly Community |
|---|---|---|
| Sidewalks | Poorly maintained, uneven, lack of ramps. | Wide, smooth, well-lit, with curb ramps and resting spots. |
| Transportation | Limited public transport, unsafe pedestrian crossings. | Affordable, accessible transit, long walk signals, clear signage. |
| Housing | Mostly single-family homes, limited options for downsizing. | Diverse housing stock, promotes aging-in-place and affordable options. |
| Social Programs | Few activities targeted at seniors, lack of funding. | Multi-generational programs, accessible events at community hubs. |
| Information Access | Relying on complex websites or tech-based communication. | Diverse communication channels, including print, phone, and simplified digital. |
| Health Services | Dispersed services, focus on acute care. | Integrated services, focus on prevention, mental health, and home care. |
Steps for an Age-Friendly Future
- Assess the current state: Evaluate community age-friendliness using the WHO framework.
- Form a multi-stakeholder committee: Include city planners, healthcare, businesses, seniors, and leaders.
- Develop an action plan: Create a prioritized plan with steps, timelines, and goals.
- Secure funding and resources: Identify grants, public funding, and private partnerships.
- Implement and monitor: Begin implementing the plan and track progress.
- Celebrate successes: Acknowledge achievements to maintain momentum.
Conclusion: Building Inclusive Communities for a Lifetime
The WHO's eight domains provide a roadmap for creating inclusive and supportive communities for older residents. A holistic approach to urban life benefits everyone, fostering a more accessible, equitable, and vibrant society. {Link: World Health Organization https://www.who.int/teams/social-determinants-of-health/demographic-change-and-healthy-ageing/age-friendly-environments}.
