Age-Friendly Olmsted County 2022-2025 Priorities Preference Survey

The 8 Domains of Livability

The Age-Friendly Olmsted County planning group is currently considering priorities for its 2022-2025 community action plan. As part of this process, we are seeking your views on where that action plan should focus its attention.

Question Title

* 1. Listed below are the World Health Organization's 8 Domains of Livability. This framework is used by many of the towns, cities, counties and states enrolled in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities to organize and prioritize their work to become more livable for both older residents and people of all ages. Based on your lived experience and/or professional insight, select three domains you believe are important areas for attention and action in 2022-2025.

COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION. Age-friendly communities recognize that information needs to be shared through a variety of methods since not everyone is tech-savvy, and not everyone has a smartphone or home-based access to the internet.

COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SERVICES. At some point, every person of every age gets hurt, becomes ill, or simply needs some help. It's essential that residents are able to access and afford the services required.

HOUSING. AARP surveys consistently find that the vast majority of older adults want to reside in their current home or community for as long as possible. Doing so is possible if a home is designed or modified for aging in place, or if a community has housing options that are suitable for differing incomes, ages, and life stages.

OUTDOOR SPACES AND BUILDINGS. People need public places to gather — indoors and out. Green spaces, seating, and accessible buildings (elevators, zero-step entrances, staircases with railings) can be used and enjoyed by people of all ages.

RESPECT AND SOCIAL INCLUSION. Everyone wants to feel valued. Intergenerational gatherings and activities are a great way for young and older people to learn from one another, honor what each has to offer, and, at the same time, feel good about themselves.

SOCIAL PARTICIPATION. Loneliness is often as debilitating a health condition as having a chronic illness or disease. Sadness and isolation can be combated by having opportunities to socialize and the availability of accessible, affordable, and fun social activities.

TRANSPORTATION. Driving shouldn't be the only way to get around. Pedestrians need sidewalks and safe, crossable streets. Dedicated bicycle lanes benefit nondrivers and drivers alike. Public transit options can range from trains, buses, and light rail to taxis, shuttles, or ride-share services.

WORK AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT. Why does work need to be an all-or-nothing experience? An age-friendly community encourages older people to be actively engaged in community life and has opportunities for residents to work for pay or volunteer their skills.