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UMass Gerontology Institute Measures COVID-19 Impact on State’s Older Adults

August 12th, 2020

A recent report by researchers from the Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging at UMass Boston’s Gerontology Institute examines these consequences for the older population in Massachusetts.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the forefront common obstacles experienced by older people, and also exacerbated challenges related to income, housing, nutrition, medical care, and emotional wellbeing. The work of community organizations meant to meet the needs of older adults is more critical than ever during this public health crisis.

The Massachusetts Healthy Aging Collaborative also believes this points to the importance of creating and advancing age-and dementia friendly communities as well. Continue reading →

Smart Growth America, CDC Launch ‘Champions Institute’ to Promote Complete Streets and Physical Activity

August 12th, 2020

Smart Growth America (SGA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity are now accepting applications for the Champions Institute, a new initiative for elected officials focused on safe streets and healthy communities. This is an opportunity for elected leaders of Age-and Dementia Friendly Communities to learn more about the concepts of Complete Streets and inclusive street policies and practices.

The Champions Institute will serve to prepare mayors, city council people, tribal representatives, and other local elected-officials to act as champions supporting plans, policies, and funding that promote activity-friendly routes to everyday destinations, as part of the Active People, Healthy Nation Initiative. Continue reading →

MHAC’s COVID-19 Updates and Resources: 8/5/20

August 5th, 2020

In addition to an evolving COVID-19 resource page, MHAC is continuing to collect and share updates on COVID-19 from state government, federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control, and other key stakeholders.

These updates are to help and inform a wide range of individuals and partners, including communities working to become more age- and dementia friendly.

Please see the latest updates below: Continue reading →

Racial Equity Municipal Action Plan Program Offers Technical Assistance to MAPC Region

August 5th, 2020

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council will be offering technical assistance and regional guidance to cities and towns in their region through the Racial Equity Municipal Action Plan (REMAP) program. Any communities in this region working to become more age-friendly are encouraged to explore the opportunity.

The program is a collaboration between MAPC, the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (FRBB). Selected municipalities will receive technical assistance to create racial equity action plans and to take meaningful action to advance racial equity.

Continue reading →

Help Inform the Future of the Mass in Motion Program by Joining an Upcoming Listening Session

August 5th, 2020

The Bureau of Community Health and Prevention at the MA Department of Public Health is hosting listening sessions to inform the future of the Mass in Motion program and those in the Mass. Healthy Aging Collaborative network are encouraged to join.

Through this series of listening sessions, MDPH will collect stakeholder input on elements of a Request for Response (RFR) that will fund local efforts to improve Social Determinants of Health through the Mass in Motion Municipal Wellness and Leadership Initiative. Continue reading →

New Communities Added to State’s Housing Choice Program

August 5th, 2020

The Housing Choice Designation is part of the Baker Administration’s strategy to produce 135,000 new housing units by 2025 to meet the high demand of housing across the state. The program also advances age-friendly housing options and best practices to help meet the demand of those looking to age in community. Continue reading →

State Announces $4 Million in MassTrails Grants to 55 Communities

August 4th, 2020

The Baker Administration awarded $4 million in MassTrails Grants to 55 local trail projects throughout the Commonwealth. The grants will support the state’s vast network of trails with projects dedicated to the construction, maintenance, and improvements for a variety of public trails, including hiking trails, bikeways, and shared-use paths. Continue reading →