Communities that adopt progressive and forward-thinking public policies and urban planning models will attract and retain more residents, provide varied business opportunities to serve the older populations, their families, and caregivers, and build infrastructure and policies that are friendly to all ages. AARP and the World Health Organization recognize the importance of creating “Age-Friendly communities” and are working together with communities across the United States, including Greater Des Moines, to encourage and promote Age-Friendly planning and policies.

An “Age-Friendly Community” entails an inclusive and accessible urban or suburban environment that encourages active and healthy aging. AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly Communities will focus on improving the elements of communities that enhance independent living with a goal of having older citizens take a more active role in the civic life of their communities.

The program is affiliated with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities®, an international effort to get cities and towns prepared for two significant ongoing trends in the world: rapid population aging, and increasing urbanization.

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Instructors:

Kent Sovern

(15 Ratings)