Boston – June 28, 2024 – With the support of a number of mayors and town administrators, and with many communities in the area already engaged in the age-and dementia-friendly movement, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council is proud to join the AARP's Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.

“AARP applauds MAPC for its commitment to making its 101 cities and towns great places for people of all ages.  We know well-designed, age-friendly communities foster economic growth and make for happier, healthier residents of all ages,” said Mike Festa, state director of AARP Massachusetts.

MetroCommon 2050, Greater Boston’s regional land use and policy plan, projects that an additional 200,000 adults 65 and over will live in the region by 2050 – 745,000 in total. That means one out of 5 residents will be 65 or older. This significant growth in households headed by older adults will result in great demand for affordable and stable housing, walkable and safe neighborhoods, and affordable and reliable transportation options to connect older adults with social, medical, food, and cultural activities.

MAPC’s has worked on a variety of age-friendly projects in recent years. In partnership with the Town of Concord’s Age-Friendly Concord Initiative, MAPC prepared a survey for older citizens and those with disabilities on how to make Concord more welcoming. The survey asked about shopping habits in the Town’s three business districts, and other questions about transportation, convenience, adaptations and affordability and more; the results helped create the basis for a senior toolkit that offers information and tips for residents and visitors.

The AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities was established in April 2012 as an independent affiliate of the World Health Organization’s Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. By joining the Age-Friendly Network, MAPC is committed to bringing an age-friendly lens to our technical assistance, research, engagement, and public policy work. We hope to learn from others across the state and nation about effective strategies to work with and engage with older adults to help create communities that work for residents of all ages.