Livable Communities
![]() |
Communities must not only adapt to the rapid growth of their older adult population, but also to the extended longevity this population will enjoy. All sectors of the community—city planners, businesses, faith-based organizations, economic development corporations, neighborhood and other civic organizations, education systems and community centers—must integrate the needs and contributions of people throughout their lifespan into their work as a matter of course, not as an afterthought.
USAging and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) have been leaders promoting planning for Livable Communities for All Ages—communities that are good places to grow up and good places to grow old. Over this time period, we have conducted community aging readiness surveys, worked one-on-one with community stakeholders to develop and implement livable community agendas, and developed how-to guides and a best practices clearinghouse of community strategies around livable communities issues. Over 70 percent of AAAs surveyed are in the process of developing Livable Communities initiatives, and USAging is providing guidance and technical assistance for this critical work.
USAging Resources
- Case Study: AgeSpan and Partners Bring Housing and Services Together (2022)
- Case Study: Bay Aging Partnerships Bring Help and Hope to People Experiencing Homelessness (2022)
- Making Your Community Livable for All Ages: What's Working! (2015)