Livable Communities

AARP North Carolina's "Let's Get Livable Over Lunch Series"

AARP North Carolina is committed to helping rural residents age in place.

“We Had to Get Creative Very Quickly”

The COVID-19 pandemic has shuttered just about every public institution throughout the United States. In North Carolina, businesses, schools, parks, and events remain closed as the public responds to the need for social distancing in order to “flatten the curve” and slow the spread of the virus. Social distancing is working and should continue, but we should not confuse social "distancing" with social "isolation." They aren’t the same. There is a real need for people to get outside, enjoy the spring air, and relax or exercise. The Center for Disease Control also recommends physical activity as a way to cope with the stress of the pandemic.

When it comes to aging, there is no place like home. A 2016 survey by AARP found 76% of people age 50+ strongly agree with the statement, “I would like to remain in my current home as long as possible.” The AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities can help people do so by assisting counties, cities, towns and rural areas best meet the needs of residents of all ages. During this national health crisis, age-friendly communities offer added benefits.

RALEIGH—AARP invites community organizations and local governments across North Carolina to apply for the 2020 AARP Community Challenge grant program, now through April 1, 2020. Grants fund “quick-action” projects that can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand or tens of thousands for larger projects. Now in its fourth year, the grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide work on livable communities.

WINSTON-SALEM -- In November, AARP North Carolina confered with local elected officials, city planners, research, housing, transportation and health experts, and others to examine the aspects of "age-friendly" communities.

Four groups have won AARP Community Challenge Grants to improve livability in the state.

November conference to spark more progress to make communities better places for all ages

New projects protect cyclists, pedestrians