8 Key Areas

Affordable, reliable, and convenient transport helps older people stay active and involved. Good transport is essential for shopping, meeting friends, and attending healthcare appointments. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Promote Journey Assistance Cards for extra support on public transport. 

• Create community transport options. 

• Offer cycling classes for older adults. 
  
  Example: Isle of Wight trains its bus drivers to be age-friendly as part of their compulsory training. 

The right housing helps older people live comfortably and safely in their community. Good housing can improve health and social connections. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Create a list of reliable maintenance workers. 

• Use a checklist to assess the suitability of homes for older people. 

• Offer free advice on housing options. 

Example: Greater Manchester’s framework supports diverse housing choices that promote social connections and independence. 

Participating in community activities is important for health and wellbeing. Age-friendly communities make sure activities are accessible to everyone. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Support initiatives for older residents to socialise and learn new skills. 

• Work with local cafes and restaurants to provide chatter tables. 

• Arrange intergenerational workshops. 

Example: Leeds’ Shared Tables project invites older people to enjoy meals together at local restaurants. 

Age-friendly communities include everyone and treat them with respect. They challenge negative stereotypes about ageing. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Use positive images of older people in communications. 

• Launch “Time for You” tills at supermarkets for those needing extra time. 

• Celebrate older people's contributions through events. 

Example: Bristol’s Age Proud campaign shares positive stories about older people to challenge stereotypes. 

Age-friendly communities provide options for older people to continue working or volunteering. These activities benefit mental health and finances. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Support local employers to become age-friendly. 

• Offer employment support to older jobseekers. 

• Advertise accessible volunteering opportunities. 

Example: East Riding of Yorkshire promotes being an Age-friendly Employer through initiatives like Health MOTs and flexible retirement policies. 

Staying connected and getting timely information is crucial as we age. Age-friendly communities ensure information is accessible to everyone. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Offer digital skills training for older people. 

• Produce newsletters in print and digital formats. 

• Run campaigns to ensure people know about benefits they’re entitled to. 

Example: Newcastle, Hackney, and Bristol have radio programs focused on civic engagement for older listeners. 

As the older population grows, the need for community support and health services increases. Age-friendly communities ensure health services are accessible and promote physical activity. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Launch local walking sports clubs. 

• Distribute information on staying safe and well, especially in winter. 

• Make falls prevention programs appealing and accessible. 

Example: Wigan has virtual bike rides to keep older people healthy in care homes. 

Public spaces and buildings affect our mobility, independence, and quality of life as we age. Age-friendly communities work to make these areas safe, accessible, and comfortable for everyone. 

An Age-friendly Community might: 

• Map out benches or toilets in the area. 

• Work with local businesses to provide places to rest. 

• Conduct walk audits with older people to improve pavements and crossings. 

Example: Nottingham’s Take a Seat campaign has over 300 local spots offering a warm welcome and a seat to people when they’re out.