Mac users: Increase text size by holding command and +. Decrease text size by holding command and -.The age-friendly movement is already based largely around improving social determinants of health, but a recent Yale study provides more incentive for such changes. The study finds that a person’s ZIP code can also help predict how long older adults remain active. Continue reading
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‘Joy Walks’ Walking Clubs for Older Adults Launched in all Boston Neighborhoods
Older adults are invited to join neighborhood Joy Walks walking clubs and participate in the Joy Walks Challenge taking place September through October. Continue reading
MassTrails Program Funds 52 Projects to Enhance Massachusetts’ Trail Network
Building on efforts to enhance access to natural resources and recreational opportunities for residents across the Commonwealth, the Baker Administration recently announced nearly $4 million in grant funding to support 52 trail projects across the Commonwealth as part of the MassTrails Grant Program. Continue reading
National Poll on Healthy Aging Highlights Decrease in Physical Activity Among Older Adults During Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic may have increased older adults’ risk of falling and injuring themselves, due to changes in physical activity, conditioning and mobility, a new national poll suggests. Continue reading
AARP Promotes Active People, Healthy Nation Campaign from the CDC
Active People, Healthy NationSM is a national initiative led by CDC to help 27 million Americans become more physically active by 2027. Increased physical activity can improve health, quality of life, and reduce health care costs.
These improvements can help reduce the risk of at least 20 chronic diseases and conditions and provide effective treatment for many of these conditions. Other potential benefits include better school performance and improved military readiness. Building active and walkable communities can help support local economies, result in less air pollution, and create more cohesive communities. Continue reading
DCR Parkways Master Plan Aims to Improve Pedestrian and Bike Network for People of All Ages
At a time of increasing interest in walking and bicycling for transportation and recreational purposes, improving safety, access, and comfort for these modes on the parkways of metro Boston represents an opportunity to dramatically expand the regional greenway network. Continue reading
‘Smart Cycling Quick Guide’ Published by League of American Bicyclists and AARP
The Smart Cycling Quick Guide is an easy-to-read booklet that outlines the basic rules of the road, components of a bicycle, and all of the information a cyclist needs to ride a bike safely and confidently in and around traffic.
A 32-page primer, the guide is published by the League of American Bicyclists with support from AARP. Continue reading
State Funding Awards for Housing, Transportation and Community Services Include Strong Support for Older Adults
In the past week, the state has announced the latest grant awards for MassDOT’s Shared Winter Streets and Spaces program, Affordable Housing Development, and Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) – all of which include multiple projects that support older adults.
All of the following award announcements are great examples for age- and dementia friendly communities looking to address housing, transportation and community services.
In Focus on Bicycling and Older Adults, AARP Highlights Boston Bike Lane Plan
In their latest newsletter, AARP’s Livable Communities team focuses on bicycling and older adults by promoting a free webinar and ways bike lanes improve safety for all, including those who don’t use a bike. Continue reading
Age-Friendly Winter Spaces Guide Aims to Help Communities Embrace Winter, Promote Physical Activity and Social Engagement
Through grant funding, collaboration, and technical support, communities across Massachusetts have an opportunity to support residents of all ages in remaining physically active and socially engaged this winter.
The pandemic has heightened the awareness and importance of social engagement, which cities and towns can promote with a new guide developed by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, WalkBoston and the Massachusetts Healthy Aging Collaborative. Continue reading