COMMENTARY
By Christina Clem
During Older Americans Month, Governor Jay Inslee announced Washington has joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities and USAging’s Dementia-Friendly America networks. This significant step is a testament to our state’s commitment to helping our residents age gracefully and thrive in their communities. These designations result from a collaboration between Washington State’s Department of Health, the Department of Social and Health Services, and the Health Care Authority.
Washington. the 12th state in the nation to enroll in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities since being established in 2012, “has received national recognition for our innovative efforts to help Washingtonians age confidently,” said Marguerite Ro, director of AARP Washington.
By aligning with these global age- and dementia-friendly initiatives, Washington will have access to a wealth of expert resources and technical support. This support will be instrumental in identifying and promoting policies and initiatives that enhance longevity, health, and engagement. From healthy food and transportation to culturally appropriate services, recreation, and social activities, these collaborations offer a promising future for our aging population.
“These programs advance Washington’s commitment to inclusivity for all,” Inslee said. “This collaboration will ensure more communities around the state have opportunities to provide improved quality of life for each resident. Our state recognizes the dignity of every Washingtonian, across all ages and abilities.”
Enrollment in the Network requires communities to assess their age-friendliness, identify improvement strategies, and implement them over time. As part of this process, Washington is committed to ensuring the voices of residents 50 and older are included.
This statewide commitment builds on the efforts of cities like Puyallup, Seattle, Tacoma, Renton, and White Salmon, which have embraced age-friendly projects and initiatives such as safe and walkable streets, housing options, and ways for residents to be involved in the community.
For example, the Puyallup Public Library created an Aging Resources Center, which includes fiction and non-fiction books and information on community events. Some communities have adopted dementia-friendly practices. For example, Seattle Parks and Recreation’s Lifelong Recreation program includes opportunities for people with memory loss, including Art in the Park and Zoo Walks. Also, through Washington’’s Dementia Action Collaborative, 24 counties are leading Dementia Friends programs, a global movement changing how people think, act, and talk about dementia.
Well-designed communities foster economic growth and make for happier, healthier residents of all ages. To learn more about AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, visit aarp.org/AgeFriendly.
Christina Clem is AARP Washington’s communications manager.