MANCHESTER, N.H. – The City of Manchester on Thursday released its finalized Age-Friendly Action Plan: an initiative designed to build a more inclusive, accessible and livable community for older adults, as well as other Manchester residents.
The city joined the AARP’s Age-Friendly Network in 2023 and has been working on this plan to enhance the gains achieved by joining the Age-Friendly Network for several months.
Efforts in the plan are structured around the eight domains of livability:
- Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
- Transportation
- Housing
- Social Participation
- Respect Social Inclusion,
- Civic Participation
- Employment, Communication and Information
- Community and Health Services
“This age-friendly initiative is an important opportunity to build a Manchester where everyone, no matter what their age, can thrive and enjoy an enhanced quality of life,” said Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais. “The Age-Friendly Action Plan identifies how short and long-term efforts, both big and small, can make a measurable impact in improving public health and strengthening our community by ensuring all residents’ needs are taken into account.”
“With approximately 16,500 Manchester residents 65 years or older – and that number projected to increase, this plan represents a commitment to ensuring the city’s older adults can remain independent, connected and engaged,” said Manchester Deputy Health Director Elaine Michaud. “We look forward to continuing this effort with our dedicated community leaders, partners, and residents to create a community that supports the changing needs of those we serve.”
An advisory committee was created to develop the plan, with representatives of the Manchester Health Department, the Office of the Mayor of Manchester and over 20 community partners. The committee will reconvene in upcoming months to evaluate and prioritize recommendations in the plan, seek out additional stakeholders and investigate potential revenue sources that can help implement parts of the plan.
The plan can be seen below or downloaded from the city’s website.