Aging in Place – A Series: Community

As we age, the physical and social environment around us plays a crucial role in determining our quality of life. An age-friendly community is one where policies, services, and structures are intentionally designed to support and enable older individuals to age actively. This means living in security, enjoying good health, and participating fully in society. When considering how age-friendly your community is, assessing its proximity to essential services and amenities is essential. Are grocery stores, pharmacies, coffee shops, libraries, and restaurants easily accessible? How far are medical facilities, dental offices, and hospitals? The distance to visit family and friends is also a significant factor to consider.

Identifying the important features of older adults in a community is crucial for planning. As we age, we may face mobility challenges or require assistance with daily tasks. Therefore, having easy access to essential services is becoming increasingly important. For example, a community with well-maintained sidewalks, ramps for wheelchairs, accessible public transportation, and age-friendly housing options can significantly enhance the quality of life for older residents. It’s essential to evaluate whether your current community aligns with these needs and if any improvements are necessary to ensure your future well-being.

Reflecting on the age-friendliness of your community is not just about the present but also about preparing for the future. By assessing the accessibility of services, the availability of social activities, and the overall inclusivity of the environment, you can better understand how well-equipped your community is to support you as you age. It’s never too early to start thinking about these aspects and advocating for age-friendly initiatives in your community to create a supportive and inclusive environment for older individuals.

For this topic, consider the following:

• I would say my current community is an “age-friendly” community.
• I am comfortable getting around in my community.
• My current community will work for me in the future.
• I feel safe in my current community.
• I know about the services offered

Please share your comments about this topic below.