AARP Eye Center
According to AARP research, the vast majority of people age 50 and older are highly engaged in their communities and want to live in their homes and communities for as long as possible. The good news is that different generations – from boomers to millennials – want similar amenities where they live.
When places are accessible to a wide range of community members, they also promote economic growth and make for happier, healthier residents in all life stages. The sidewalk that is wide enough for a person and their service dog, is also useful to a parent pushing a stroller. A home with a zero-step entry reduces mobility challenges for a visitor in a wheelchair today, but also removes hazards for the homeowner as they age. This workshop will share key inclusive design tools and highlight proven examples to inspire leaders and advocates to make their communities great places for people of all ages.
The two-day 2024 AARP Livable Communities Workshop: Designing for People of All Ages, will explore how local leaders can design for people of all ages in urban, suburban and rural communities by:
· Developing (and redeveloping) a housing stock that meets the needs of individuals throughout their life span to allow them to age in place,
· Ensuring that communities are healthy and well-connected with safe streets and accessible transit,
· Providing vibrant, multigenerational parks and public spaces that have the power to foster community interaction, and
· Recognizing the value of community engagement strategies that ensure all lived experiences are valued and contribute to the decision-making process.
Participants will hear about innovative solutions and best practices to design places that benefit people of all ages and abilities through four key themes: Housing, Transportation, Public Spaces, and Community Engagement.
Presentations from more than 30 speakers will include:
· Mariia Zimmerman, Principal Assistant Secretary for Policy at the U.S. Department of Transportation;
· Gil Penalosa, founder of 8 80 Cities;
· Rebekah Taussig, author and national disability advocate;
· Mayor Cavalier Johnson, City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
· Mayor Acquanetta Warren, City of Fontana, California;
· Mayor Stephanie Terry, City of Evansville, Indiana;
· Jonathon Stalls, co-creator of Walk2connect; and
· Laura Poskin, executive director of Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh.
A variety of keynotes, panel presentations, live interviews, and Innovation Showcase videos will feature replicable best practices from practitioners across the country and offer a deep dive into proven strategies and programs.
The free, virtual workshop will be held October 16 and 17 from 1 to 5 p.m. (ET). To learn more and register for the free, virtual workshop visit www.AARP.org/Livable2024.
*American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) members can earn Certification Maintenance (CM) credits for many of the workshop sessions. Click HERE for more information on AICP’s CM program.