Building communities that are great places for people of all ages is a priority for AARP. By 2030, one out of five Americans will be age 65 and older. In many places, this population will more than double what it was in 2010.

Communities will need to adapt. The global coronavirus pandemic has only highlighted this need.

Fortunately, many of the things that make it easier for older Americans to stay in their homes and communities are what residents of any age need and want: safe, affordable housing and transportation options; opportunities to learn and support their families; connections to their neighbors; and responsive local governments.

As a result, AARP’s approach to what we call “livable communities” is fundamentally intergenerational.

AARP is an ally and a resource for national, state, and local officials. Through offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, we are working in partnership with government leaders, businesses, non-profit organizations, community groups and residents to help make their cities, towns, and counties great places to live. This includes the approximately 500 locations—from small, rural communities to our nation’s biggest cities—that have joined AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, demonstrating a commitment to achieving this vision.

AARP provides hands-on support in target communities in all states by:

• providing reports, publications and toolkits to help leaders learn about livability features;
• supporting place-based investments, including technical assistance, grant funding through the AARP Community Challenge and more; 
• developing models for local governments to engage 50+ residents to tackle public problems; and
• advocating for local-level policy change to enhance livability for all residents.

To learn more and access free tools and resources click the buttons below.