Cities Became More Livable for ALL in 2021

As 2021 wrapped, I, like many, took some time to reflect on the year.

Fighting for the policy supports, protections, and improvements older Americans need – especially during the ongoing pandemic – has never been more complex or more needed. That’s why I’m especially proud of what we accomplished in our livable communities work.

AARP’s Livable Communities strategy focuses on enabling people 50+ to stay in their communities and thrive as they age. And while it has been one of our priorities for a number of years, it’s more important than ever considering our aging population.

Here’s a snapshot of the progress we saw in 2021. 

Helping Cities Leverage Federal Funding

AARP is fighting to make sure that the $130+ billion in funding available to cities and counties under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) is invested in ways that encourage livability for residents of all ages and abilities.

For example:

AARP state teams worked with local leaders and partners to help ensure effective implementation of housing assistance programs under ARPA so older residents struggling financially could stay in their homes. 

We also released a new resource to help local officials leverage ARPA funding opportunities that will strengthen their communities for the future, and we hosted tele-town halls with mayors across the country to help connect older adults with their local leaders.