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Age Friendly Michigan
In October 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared Michigan’s commitment to be the first state in the Midwest and the sixth in the nation to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly states.
This network of communities and states believe that the places where we live are more livable, and better able to support people of all ages, when local leaders commit to improving the quality of life for the very young, the very old, and everyone in between. Age-Friendly states and communities focus on policies and programs that make neighborhoods walkable, feature transportation options, enable access to key services, provide opportunities to participate in community activities, and support housing that’s affordable and adaptable create a community that is friendly and beneficial for all. In addition, well-designed, age-friendly communities foster economic growth and make for happier, healthier residents.
AARP’s 8 Domains of Livability are used as a framework for Michigan in setting goals and action plans to create a more Age-Friendly state. Michigan’s Age Friendly Action Plan and Livability Index Score can be found on the AARP website: State of Michigan | AARP Livable Communities Map.
Ensuring this work continues to move forward, MDHHS facilitates a quarterly Age-Friendly Steering Committee. This group encompasses representatives across Michigan and the 8 Domains of Livability.
For more information on Michigan’s Age Friendly initiatives, please contact the Bureau of Aging, Community Living, and Supports Health Promotion and Wellness Coordinator at SmithK138@michigan.gov.