Lists of “Most Livable Cities” have become ubiquitous over the past decade. While the criteria of what makes communities “livable” in such lists can vary, the consideration of how communities serve the needs of a maturing population is a critical one.
Since 2010, the World Health Organization has been advocating for cities to adopt the idea of an “age-friendly world” in which participating cities and elected leadership commit to working actively toward making their communities more livable for people of all ages. Public agencies, businesses, institutions, and community groups work together to change policies and improve the physical environment to create a better quality of life for older residents and, consequently, people at all stages of life and of all abilities.
While the concept is simple, the work involves a coordinated, multistep process to come up with ideas and effective strategies focused on improving eight “domains” of livability: outdoor spaces and buildings; transportation; housing; social participation; respect and social inclusion; civic participation and employment; communication and information; and community and health services.
The Milken Institute, a non-profit think tank that publishes lists of metropolitan areas best prepared to serve its aging populations, named Iowa City, Iowa, as the 2017 best small city for successful aging. Iowa City has dedicated resources to incorporating and promoting participation, health, security, and independence through multiple avenues, including providing safe, accessible transit; posting easy-to-read signs; and developing integrated and accessible intergenerational cohousing.
Some of the major benefits of creating an age-friendly city are:
1. It can improve the local economy. It’s no secret that, as a whole, older generations have more economic clout than younger ones. According to Oxford Economics, a global forecasting and advisory firm, the more than 106 million people over the age of 50 are collectively responsible for $4.6 trillion in economic activity on consumer goods and services, such as patronage to local stores and restaurants. That’s an enormous opportunity for the growth of any community.
2. It improves health & wellness. When a person can move about their community freely, both physical and mental health is supported. Implementing design and infrastructure that promotes physical activity, such as walking and biking paths, optimizes happiness and independence and reduces the effects of social isolation. According to the book, “The Longevity Project” by Howard Friedman and Leslie Martin, exercise and physical well-being lift a person’s spirit and energy levels and make him or her feel better, further supporting the idea that creating accessibility in communities is vital.
3. It enhances intergenerational engagement. Creating environments that promote social interaction among different generations and demographics directly leads to a sense of purpose and connection. The study “Hidden In Plain Sight: How Intergenerational Relationships Can Transform Our Future,” from the Stanford Center on Longevity in partnership with Encore.org and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, states that environments that promote intergenerational connections cultivate a sense of purpose and help people develop soft skills and benefit in forming interpersonal and meaningful relationships. In addition, the study found that in promoting the well-being of the next generation, “older adults experience fulfillment and purpose in their own lives.”
As designers and architects, we have the resources to envision and create livable environments and healthy buildings that are accessible, inclusive, and, yes, affordable. Through our professional involvement with local community efforts, we can help cities becomes more livable places for all ages.
Diane Dooley is principal at DiMella Shaffer in Boston. She can be reached at [email protected].
