Age-Friendly City

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

Positive images of older persons
Accessible and useful information
Accessible public and private transportation
Inclusive opportunities for civic, cultural, educational and voluntary engagement
Barrier-free and enabling interior and exterior spaces

Health

Places and programs for active leisure and socialization
Activities, programs and information to promote health, social and spiritual well-being
Social support and outreach
Accessible and appropriate health services
Good air/water quality

Security and independence

Appropriate, accessible, affordable housing
Accessible home-safety designs and products
Hazard-free streets and buildings
Safe roadways and signage for drivers and pedestrians
Safe, accessible and affordable public transportation
Services to assist with household chores and home maintenance
Supports for caregivers
Accessible stores, banks and professional services
Supportive neighbourhoods
Safety from abuse and criminal victimization
Public information and appropriate training
Emergency plans and disaster recovery
Appropriate and accessible employment opportunities
Flexible work practices

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.