The 8 Domains of Livability
The availability and quality of these community features impact the well-being of older adults
by Melissa Stanton, AARP Livable Communities
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Robert Deutschman/Getty Images
The Good Life
En español | The World Health Organization’s Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities project has identified eight domains of livability that influence the quality of life of older adults. Herewith, a pictorial tour through the domains.
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1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
Driving shouldn't be the only way to get around. Public transit options can be as expansive and as infrastructure dependent as a train system or as targeted as a taxi service that provides non-drivers with rides to and from a doctor's office.
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2. Transportation
Regardless of a person's age, loneliness is often as debilitating a health condition as having a chronic illness or disease. Sadness and isolation can be combatted by the availability of accessible, affordable and fun social activities.
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3. Housing
Why does work need to be an all or nothing experience? An age-friendly community provides ways older people can (if they choose) continue to work for pay, volunteer their skills and be actively engaged in community life.
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4. Social Participation
At some point, every person of every age gets hurt, becomes ill or simply needs some help. While it's important that care be available nearby, it's essential that residents are able to access and afford the services required.
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5. Respect and Social Inclusion
The World Health Organization’s Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities project has identified eight domains of livability that influence the quality of life of older adults. Herewith, a pictorial tour through the domains.
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6. Work & Civic Engagement
En español | The World Health Organization’s Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities project has identified eight domains of livability that influence the quality of life of older adults. Herewith, a pictorial tour through the domains.
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7. Communication and Information
En español | The World Health Organization’s Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities project has identified eight domains of livability that influence the quality of life of older adults. Herewith, a pictorial tour through the domains.
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8. Community and Health Services
En español | The World Health Organization’s Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities project has identified eight domains of livability that influence the quality of life of older adults. Herewith, a pictorial tour through the domains.
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Age-Friendly for All Ages
En español | The World Health Organization’s Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities project has identified eight domains of livability that influence the quality of life of older adults. Herewith, a pictorial tour through the domains.
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