Creating Elder-Friendly Communities

TLDR

Many communities are not designed for older residents, so elder‑friendly communities that actively involve, value, and support older adults with appropriate infrastructure and services are needed to enable aging in place. The study analyzes literature and Delphi results to identify the key characteristics of elder‑friendly communities, including accessible transportation, affordable housing, health care, safety, and community involvement. The authors conduct a literature review and Delphi study, then highlight innovative programs and the role of social workers in developing elder‑friendly communities.

Abstract

Summary Because many communities where older people live were not designed for their needs, older residents may require support to remain in the least restrictive environment. ‘Age-prepared communities’ utilize community planning and advocacy to foster aging in place. ‘Elder-friendly communities’ are places that actively involve, value, and support older adults, both active and frail, with infrastructure and services that effectively accommodate their changing needs. This paper presents an analysis of the literature and results of a Delphi study identifying the most important characteristics of an elder-friendly community: accessible and affordable transportation, housing, health care, safety, and community involvement opportunities. We also highlight innovative programs and identify how social workers can be instrumental in developing elder-friendly communities.