In an Age-Friendly community, policies, services and structures related to the physical and social environment are designed to support and enable older people to “age actively” – that is, to live in security, enjoy good health and continue to participate fully in society. Public and commercial settings and services are made accessible to accommodate varying levels of ability. Age-friendly service providers, public officials, community leaders, faith leaders and business people:
- recognize the great diversity among older persons,
- promote their inclusion and contribution in all areas of community life
- respect their decisions and lifestyle choices, and
- anticipate and respond flexibly to aging-related needs and preferences.
Many aspects of urban settings and services can contribute to the participation, health, independence and security of older persons in an age-friendly city. A list of these features is shown in the following table.
Active ageing – age-friendly community
Participation
Health
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Security and independence
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Why Support an Age-Friendly City?
An age-friendly community benefits people of all ages. Improving air and water quality protects growing children and older persons with environmental sensitivities. Secure neighbourhoods are safe for all people as they age. Families and friends experience less worry and stress when their loved ones have the services and support they need. Barrier-free buildings and streets enhance the mobility and independence of both younger and older persons with disabilities. The whole community benefits from the participation of older persons in volunteer or paid work and civic activities. The local economy benefits from the patronage of older adult consumers.
To share the learnings, the World Health Organization (WHO) will compile the results into practical “Age-Friendly City” guidelines that could be used by cities around the world.