A movement is gaining momentum in Massachusetts to create livable communities that focus on improving quality of life for older adults, but benefit all residents of all ages.
The goals of Community Development Corporations, as well as the CDC “Theory of Change,” aligns perfectly with those of the Age-Friendly Community Movement. Many cities in towns in Massachusetts are already engaged in this continuous improvement cycle where assessment, action planning, and implementation phases aim to enhance eight “domains” of livability as determined by the World Health Organization.
As CDC are experts in improving social determinants of health, building partnerships between healthcare and the community, and educating the public about the linkage of community development and public health, there is an opportunity to contribute to the success of the Age-Friendly Movement.
Learn more:
- AARP Roadmap to Livability – A guide on how communities can start the process of becoming Age-Friendly.
- Massachusetts Healthy Aging Collaborative (MHAC) – A statewide initiative that promotes and supports Age-Friendly and Dementia Friendly Communities.
- Mass. Municipal Association’s 2018 Best Practice Series that includes Age- and Dementia Friendly work.
- Governor Charlie Baker Declares Massachusetts as an Age-Friendly State
- AARP’s “Better Together” report on how to align Age- and Dementia Friendly Community work.
For more on how your CDC can get involved and join the MHAC Advisory Council or regional advisory groups, contact MHAC Senior Director James Fuccione.
