Age-Friendly reimagined

Age-Friendly Reimagined

An Old Idea

Age-Friendly Reimagined because it originated in 2007. The World Health Organisation introduced the concept. In 2013, the European Union adopted it in the Dublin Declaration and Councils throughout Wales became signatories. The Caerphilly 2015 Delivery Plan supports the Older People’s Strategy for Wales. They recognised Caerphilly Over 50 in this plan.

Councils did not engage wholeheartedly with Age-Friendly principles. Engagement and coproduction are key elements of Age-Friendly Communities. Councils have not moved participation beyond consultation and survey. This will be the challenge for the new programme.

A mixed group of older people walking in a park

A New Initiative

The Welsh Government (WG) published the latest Strategy for an Ageing Society in October 2021 and the Implementation Plan in April 2022. WG sees the concept of Age-Friendly Communities (AFC) as central to improving the lives of older people in Wales.

The programme is being led by the Older People’s Commissioner. The Commissioner has established an AFC Practitioner Group. Their experience will inform councils’ understanding of AFCs. Councils will develop their programmes to gain accreditation with the WHO.

AGE

AFCs form a key part of the latest WG Strategy for Older People. The Older People’s Commissioner leads the programme. However, Age-Friendly Communities are not just about Older People.

Age-Friendly Communities are about the entire community. But it is interesting to note the emphasis on the Dublin Declaration:

“The built environment and neighbourhood networks …. for all people, especially for those growing older.”

Cities must equip themselves with the means, ….. participation of all citizens, including their older citizens.”

Ending Ageism and Age Discrimination is one of the Commissioner’s priorities. So, although AFCs are about the entire community, it is still important to note that this includes everybody in the community. This is also why Caerphilly Over 50 is very keen on intergenerational activities, for example, Poetry Together.

Being more age-friendly isn’t just about government policy or council services, it’s about working together with other people in your community to make a difference.

Making your community more age-friendly doesn’t need to be difficult or complicated. Small changes can make a big difference. By working together, you might be surprised by what you can achieve.

An age-friendly community recognises and celebrates diversity, bringing people together to challenge ageism and ensure that all ages can fully participate in community life.

Age-Friendly Reimagined

An Old Idea

AGE

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