What does the term “Age-Friendly” mean?
Age-Friendly describes a movement to make communities more welcoming and livable for older residents and people of all ages. It describes efforts we can take together to create places where people can grow up and grow old together. AARP has identified eight areas for communities throughout the country to focus on improving:
| 5. Respect & Social Inclusion |
| 6. Civic Participation & Employment |
| 7. Communication & Information |
| 8. Community & Health Service |
Why is it important for Massachusetts to become Age-Friendly?
Massachusetts has always been a leader in providing services and support to older residents. Today, we have more residents over the age of 60 than under the age of 20, and this growing population of older people offers an opportunity to develop new ways to help residents age and thrive in the places where they live, work and volunteer.
Is Age-Friendly just about helping older people?
No, age-friendly communities are more welcoming and livable for people of all ages. When we help an older person continue to live, work, and volunteer in our communities, we all benefit from their energy, experience and contributions. As we grow older, we want to be able to live as independently as we can, in cities and towns where our contributions are respected and valued and our changing needs are supported.