Livable Communities

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

The Granite City Greenway in Mt Airy is a 6.6 linear mile trail and a great local resource for walking, biking, running or strolling. And a couple of additions would make it even better for users of all ages. A 2019 AARP Community Challenge Grant will help add ten benches, five bike racks and new trees to the trail.

Madison County lies on the western edge of North Carolina, where the Appalachian Trail meanders north and east from Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Generations of farmers once grew tobacco here on the sides of mountains and still raise cattle to make ends meet. “When you go back into some of the mountains and hollers, you can almost touch what once was,” says Dee Heinmuller, Director of Madison County Community Services.

ASHEVILLE, NC -- Part of Asheville’s city center recently received a temporary makeover to show how some simple modifications can make public spaces better for people of all ages.