Communities for All Ages

Convenient access to community health and social services is critical to healthy aging and thriving communities. Cities should look for ways to expand access to health services, develop strategic partnerships with healthcare and social service agencies, and be creative in how residents get access to services.

Key Concepts

• Availability: immunizations, food access, health screenings.
• Partnerships: public health department, health clinics, elder abuse prevention agencies.

Checklist for Implementation

1. Address the need for health care services that are accessible to all and served by transportation options in city plans.
2. Offer health services at community facilities in partnership with health care organizations.
3. Publicize plans and services to improve the rate of immunizations among city residents.
4. Provide education about recognizing the warning signs of dementia to staff and/or works towards a Dementia Friendly Community designation.
5. Provide training on recognizing and reporting elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.
6. Promote or provide health education programs and preventive services to residents.
7. Consider locations of grocery stores and retail establishments to expand healthy food options to all residents.
8. Provide information about nutrition programs such as home-delivered meals and food banks.
9. Support community gardens, farmers markets and other initiatives that promote healthy eating.
10. Establish a process for providing referrals for residents identified as needing more intensive services.
11. Work with the local health department to ensure representation of all ages in the Community Health Improvement Plan.