Longevity Friendly Neighborhood
- The concept of Longevity Living intentionally shifts away from the word ‘senior’ to focus on the next generation of living environments for silver and intergenerational spaces. Sociosystem and ecosystem coevolution.
- A longevity and senior-friendly neighborhood focuses on creating an environment that supports healthy aging and extends the lifespan of older adults. This involves designing spaces and services that are accessible, inclusive, and conducive to social interaction and participation. Key aspects include ensuring accessible transportation, promoting social engagement through community centers and green spaces, and providing convenient access to healthcare and other essential services.
- Here's a more detailed breakdown of what makes a neighborhood longevity- and senior-friendly:
- 1. Accessibility and Design:
- • Walkable and Bikeable:
Prioritize pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, such as well-lit sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes, to encourage physical activity and independent mobility. • Accessible Buildings: Design buildings with features that accommodate older adults, including ramps, elevators, and wide doorways. • Green Spaces: Provide ample access to parks, gardens, and other green areas, which offer opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and social interaction. • Public Transportation: Ensure reliable and accessible public transportation options to connect residents with essential services and opportunities. 2. Social Interaction and Engagement: • Community Centers: Establish community centers that offer a range of activities, programs, and services tailored to the needs of older adults. • Support for Socialization: Design public spaces that encourage social interaction and participation, such as outdoor seating areas, community gardens, and shared gathering spaces. • Multigenerational Programming: Promote intergenerational connections and engagement through activities that involve both older and younger residents. 3. Health and Healthcare: • Accessible Healthcare: Ensure convenient access to healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other essential medical services. • Preventive Care: Promote healthy aging through access to preventive care, health education, and wellness programs. • Home Health Services: Make home health services readily available to support residents with disabilities or chronic conditions. 4. Economic Opportunities: • Affordable Housing: Ensure that senior residents have access to affordable housing options. • Employment Opportunities: Support the economic participation of older adults by promoting employment and volunteer opportunities. 5. Focus on Social Well-being: • Addressing Isolation: Proactively address social isolation and loneliness among older adults through social programs and community events. • Promoting Civic Participation: Encourage older adults to remain engaged in community life and participate in local governance. By addressing these key aspects, neighborhoods can be transformed into spaces where older adults can live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
- Redefining Age-Friendly Neighbourhoods: Translating the Promises of Blue Zones for Contemporary Urban Environment
- Study from NORC at the University of Chicago
- Study shows positive relationship between senior housing, longevity and preventive health for older adults Dallas, TX (March 5, 2024)
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