Age-Friendly Ohio: Communities That Work for Everyone

Governor Launches Age-Friendly Ohio

Gov. Mike DeWine announced that Ohio has officially joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, becoming the newest state to commit to building communities that support residents across the lifespan. This designation recognizes Ohio’s proactive approach to planning for demographic shifts and promoting policies that benefit people of all ages.

AARP is helping to make communities more livable for people of all ages. Ohio’s population is rapidly aging, with our 65+ population outpacing our school-age population.

AARP Age-Friendly Communities are part of a network that helps cities and towns become more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults. These communities focus on improving areas like transportation, housing, safety, health services and social inclusion. AARP supports these efforts with resources, peer collaboration and funding opportunities, like the annual Community Challenge.

These domains are the framework used by states and communities enrolled in the network to organize and prioritize their work to become livable for people of all ages. The availability and quality of these community features impact the well-being of older adults.

Reimagining a Better Ohio for All Generations

“AARP is proud to welcome Ohio into the Age-Friendly Network,” said Jenny Carlson, AARP Ohio State Director. “This designation reflects a shared vision for a state where Ohioans can grow up and grow older together. We want to empower Ohioans to age with dignity and independence, while staying active and connected to their communities.”

Get Involved: Join the Movement for Age-Friendly Communities

- Volunteer opportunities
- Information about walk audits
- How to start or join an age-friendly initiative
- Events, webinars and trainings

Age-Friendly Ohio: Communities That Work for Everyone

- What makes a community livable for all ages?
- Connecting generations in communities
- AARP Livable Communities resources
- How livable is your community?

Economic Vitality & Innovation: Smart Growth for a Thriving Ohio

- How age-friendly policies support workforce retention and consumer spending
- Age-inclusive business practices
- Age-friendly business examples
- Grants, incentives and funding opportunities
- Economic impact studies and toolkits

Leading with Vision: Policy that Supports All Ages

- How communities are working to eliminate disparities to serve all residents
- Sample legislation and ordinances (ADUs)
- Advocacy tools and legislative briefs.

Upcoming Age-Friendly Events

Accessory Dwelling Units: Insights and Strategies
October 1, 2025| 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.

ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) offer diverse, attainable housing and support smart community planning. Join AARP Ohio, Opticos Design, and Columbus City Council leaders to explore zoning updates, construction incentives, and strategies for building support. Learn from experts helping cities nationwide implement ADUs.

Register for this virtual event.

Additional Age-Friendly Resources

- Age-Friendly Ohio announcement
- Media assets
- How to Prepare for a Natural Disaster
- Important Disaster Repair Advice
- Disaster Preparedness Checklist