Within two decades, approximately one in every five Wisconsin residents will be age 65 or older. For many of our rural counties – particularly in the northern tier of our state – this is already the case. By 2035, the older population in some rural counties will be between 35-42%. At least 45 counties are projected to have more than a quarter of their residents age 65+, and virtually all 72 counties are projected to have 65+ populations that constitute at least 17% of the population. There is a large proportion of Wisconsinites who are older adults, and it is an opportunity for all of us to ensure our communities create the resources and tools to be prepared for changing needs and priorities.

Contrary to popular belief and stereotype, only a minority of older adults actually move to warmer climates upon retirement.  Most of us remain in our own homes and communities as we age. In fact, the majority of people retire where they spend their final years of employment.  Between 2011 and 2012, for example, only about 3 percent of people age 65 and older moved; compared to 14 percent of people under age 65. We want to think about being able to “age in community,” not just aging in place, meaning there is community-wide support for everyone to age and thrive (n4a, 2014). With this in mind, every community – rural or urban – will need to adapt to an increasingly older population. Consequently, a primary goal for community-level planning efforts should be to create environments that are “aging-friendly”; that is, settings where we can live our entire lives rather than having to relocate when we experience the personal changes in health and functioning that accompany later life.

The qualities and characteristics of an aging-friendly community do not only impact us as we age in our community. These are some of the same qualities and characteristics that many young adults and young families are also looking for in communities, otherwise known as a “livable community.” By focusing on these, your community may also address issues of retaining and/or attracting young people with which many aging communities are dealing. The community, as a whole, can benefit from implementing strategies in top priority areas found in the Creating Aging-Friendly Communities Survey.  An “aging-friendly” community is an “everyone-friendly” community. This will benefit everyone regardless of age by allowing older adults to stay involved in our communities or “age in community”, in addition to the added benefit of inter-generational connection and collaboration.

“All Americans have the right to participate fully in our democracy, our economy, and our community life. But right now, our society starts to exclude us as we age. Americans are living longer, but our systems and structures haven’t been adjusted so that older people can stay involved. Instead, our workplace policies, our transportation systems, and other features of everyday life have the effect of isolating and marginalizing older adults. To build a more just, more inclusive society, we need to take steps to prevent social isolation of any group, including older people.” (Frameworks Institute, 2019) 

INCLUSIVE – People of all ages, races/ethnicities, and abilities, especially older adults, are welcome. 

SUSTAINABLE – Residents are committed to a lifestyle that is sustainable environmentally, economically, and socially. Size matters. People need to know each other, and scale determines the nature of human interaction. Small is better. 

HEALTHY – The community encourages and supports wellness of the mind, body, and spirit, and, to the same degree, plans and prepares programs and systems that support those dealing with disease, disability, and death. 

ACCESSIBLE – The setting provides easy access to the home and community. For example, all homes, businesses, and public spaces are wheelchair-friendly and incorporate universal design features. Multiple modes of transportation are encouraged. 

INTERDEPENDENT – The community fosters reciprocity and mutual support among family, friends, and neighbors across generations. 

ENGAGED – Promotes opportunities for community participation, social and civic engagement, education, and creative expression. 

*Source:  Moving beyond place: Aging in Community. Generations, 33(2), 12-17, Thomas, W. H., & Blanchard, J. M. (2009).

It’s important to note that promoting age-friendly qualities in communities does not need to be expensive or an isolated project. Simply approaching existing strategic planning initiatives with an aging-friendly perspective in mind can present many opportunities to make small changes that may make a big difference.