AARP Livable Communities Cohort

Approximately 45 million Americans are age 65 or older. By 2030, that number will reach 73 million Americans. At that point, fully one in five Americans will be older than 65. By 2034, the United States will — for the first time ever — be a country comprised of older adults than of children. In this eight-week cohort, participants explored how changing demographics and attitudes can make entire communities better — for all people of all ages. When older adults are brought to the table to discuss and answer questions (such as, “How can this community be more livable?”), the creative ideas and solutions that emerge provide benefits for everyone, regardless of their age. Over eight weeks, participants: • Examined strategies for preparing for the growth of an aging population. • Discussed models from around the country to learn how other local governments are responding to demographic trends. • Explored a suite of resources that are available to local government leaders in implementing transportation, housing and public space improvements that benefit older adults and people of all ages. • Attended two to three one-hour training webinars. • Complete several activities focused on helping your community think differently about creating better places for people of all ages.