The concept of an age-friendly community is built on the foundation that a great place to grow up should also be a great place to grow old. This means proactively addressing the needs and maximizing the assets of an aging population for the benefit of all residents. The age-friendly framework, primarily developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), and supported in the U.S. by organizations like AARP, focuses on eight key domains of urban and social life. By examining these domains, communities can assess their strengths and weaknesses and develop action plans for improvement.
The Eight Domains of Age-Friendliness
1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
Accessible, well-maintained public spaces are crucial for encouraging physical activity and social interaction. This includes providing green spaces, ample public seating, and safe, slip-resistant sidewalks with adequate lighting. Buildings should have features like zero-step entrances, ramps, and clear signage to accommodate people with varying abilities. Simple additions like “parklets” can transform underutilized parking spaces into valuable outdoor seating and gathering areas.
2. Transportation
Affordable, reliable, and convenient transport options are essential for older adults who may no longer drive. Age-friendly transportation includes accessible public transit, paratransit services, community shuttles, and volunteer-based programs. These services allow seniors to access essential services like healthcare and groceries while reducing social isolation. Safety features, such as audible pedestrian signals and sufficient crossing times, are also vital.
3. Housing
An age-friendly community offers a continuum of housing options that are affordable, safe, and adaptable to changing needs, allowing people to "age in place". This includes housing located close to services and transit, as well as affordable home modification options. In-law apartments and accessory dwelling units also provide flexible living arrangements for multi-generational families.
4. Social Participation
Social participation is critical for health and well-being, combating isolation and loneliness. Age-friendly communities offer a wide range of affordable leisure, cultural, and educational activities that appeal to diverse interests and are held in accessible venues. Intergenerational programs, which bring together younger and older residents, can also help foster community cohesion.
5. Respect and Social Inclusion
These communities actively combat ageism by promoting a positive and respectful view of older adults. They recognize the past and present contributions of seniors and ensure their needs are considered in community planning and decision-making. Communication should use inclusive language, avoiding stereotypes and negative connotations.
6. Civic Participation and Employment
Many older adults wish to remain active through paid work or volunteering. Age-friendly communities provide flexible and suitable employment options for mature job seekers. They also support robust volunteering opportunities that recognize the skills and experience of older residents and offer training and appropriate compensation for costs.
7. Communication and Information
Providing accessible and timely information is crucial. This means using a variety of communication channels—print, radio, websites, and community centers—to reach all residents. Information materials should use large, clear fonts and simple language. Websites should be accessible for all users, including those with visual impairments.
8. Community Support and Health Services
Accessible, affordable, and coordinated health and community support services are fundamental. This includes everything from home care and delivery services to preventive health programs and mental wellness resources. Age-friendly communities ensure services are conveniently located and easy to access.
Comparison: Age-Friendly Community vs. Senior-Focused Community
| Feature | Age-Friendly Community | Senior-Focused Community (e.g., 55+) |
|---|---|---|
| Inclusivity | Designed for all ages and abilities, not just older adults. | Restricted to a specific age group (e.g., 55 and over). |
| Focus | Holistic approach considering physical and social environment for an entire population. | Often a housing-focused model with amenities and services centered around older adult residents. |
| Community Integration | Fosters intergenerational connections and integrates older adults into the broader community life. | Typically creates a separate living environment, limiting interaction with other age groups. |
| Housing Options | Offers a variety of housing types (apartments, single-family, ADUs) to promote aging in place. | Generally offers specialized independent living or assisted living facilities with predictable costs. |
| Services Provided | Includes wide-ranging public services like transportation, parks, and health services for all citizens. | Services are often on-site and managed by the community provider (e.g., meals, maintenance, planned activities). |
| Economic Benefit | Stimulates the local economy by attracting and retaining all generations, including older workers and businesses. | Economic benefits are concentrated within the community and related services. |
Economic and Social Benefits of Age-Friendly Communities
The age-friendly model offers significant returns beyond simply supporting its older residents. Economically, it retains older adults who have significant purchasing power, volunteer hours, and skills that contribute to the local economy. This population also starts more new businesses than younger adults and is active as consumers. Socially, age-friendly environments combat isolation by providing opportunities for social engagement, which has been shown to improve mental and physical health outcomes. A walkable, accessible community with diverse activities benefits everyone, from children with strollers to people with disabilities, fostering a stronger and more resilient civic life.
Conclusion
An age-friendly community is far more than a set of senior-specific services; it is a holistic approach to urban and social planning that builds a more resilient, inclusive, and thriving society for all. By adopting the principles championed by organizations like the WHO and AARP, communities can ensure that their policies and infrastructure support active, healthy, and dignified aging. This commitment results in a more vibrant and economically dynamic place where individuals are valued for their contributions throughout their entire lives. The age-friendly model proves that investing in the well-being of older residents is an investment in the entire community's future. For more information, consider exploring the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.
