AARP OhioÑHelping Communities Prepare for the Future

Meeting Demands as Baby Boomers Redefine Aging

Source: AARP.org | May 29, 2007

AARP is working to help communities plan ahead because nine in 10 Ohioans say they want to remain living in their own homes and neighborhoods as they age. Our research also shows that almost all of us rate a "livable community" as essential to maintaining our independence and quality of life.

While each of us has our own image of a livable community, it's not surprising that most people agree on some common elements that make a community livable. Among key characteristics: safe neighborhoods, a pedestrian-friendly environment, easy access to grocery stores and other shops, a mix of housing types, nearby health centers and recreational facilities. AARP research finds that most people agree that a livable community has a range of transportation and mobility options and supportive services that facilitate personal independence and allow residents to lead full and active civic and social lives.

AARP features a new Livable Communities web area devoted to housing, mobility and living well. Here you can meet others, become part of this new online community and share ideas on how your town and others across America are working on housing and mobility issues to make their neighborhoods better places to live.

Post comments about your hometown online, what's great and what isn't. Here you can find demographic information by zip code and take the Rate Your Community survey.

AARP Ohio is working with leaders in Marietta, Clermont County and Delaware to plan to meet future demands as Baby Boomers redefine aging. You can help shape that future by volunteering with our AARP Livable Communities Speakers Bureau. You will receive training that prepares you to help others understand the issues impacting the quality of life for all community residents, identify priorities and find solutions.

To learn more, e-mail or contact Tamara James at AARP Ohio by calling toll-free 1-866-389-5653.

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• Beyond 50.05 A Report to the Nation on Livable Communities
  From AARP’s Beyond 50 Report Series
• Home and Community Booklets Online Order Form
  Order a free copy of AARP publications.

Other Resources

• Aging in Place Initiative
  Developing Livable Communities for All Ages
• Beacon Hill Village
  A Livable Community in Action
• Partners for Livable Communities
  Creating Elder-Friendly Communities
• United States Department of Health and Human Services
  Aging Topics and Resources