Age-Friendly Communities Program
In 2006, the World Health Organisation brought together 33 cities in 22 countries for a project to help determine the key elements of the urban environment that support active and healthy ageing. The result was the Age-Friendly Communities Program, which outlines a framework for assessing the 'age-friendliness' of a city. A core aspect of this approach is to include older people as active participants in the process.
The advantages of being a member of the World Health Organisation Age-Friendly Communities program: connection to a global network of ageing and civil society experts; access to key information about the program results, challenges and new initiatives; provision of technical guidance and training throughout the age-friendly implementation process; opportunities for partnerships with other cities.
So what is an Age-Friendly Community? An Age-Friendly Community is an inclusive and accessible urban environment that promotes active ageing.
The World Health Organisation has identified eight domains of liveability which will serve as a framework for a baseline assessment and an action plan for Burnie, those domains are as follows:
1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings - social interaction, physical activity and amenities
2. Transportation - affordability and accessibility to resources in Burnie
3. Housing - affordable, enabling older people to live independently in their homes
4. Social Participation - social networks, meaningful and productive social activities
5. Respect and Social Isolation - attitudes, behaviours and social exclusion
6. Civic Participation and Employment - contribute and participate in society in some form
7. Communication and Information - to key services, leisure, social, advocacy and advice
8. Community Support and Health Services - ensuring health and independence in community
For more information about how you can be involved in the Age-Friendly Communities Program contact Council's Community Development Officer on 6430 5706.
