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Governor Mike DeWine today 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.
“Joining the AARP Age-Friendly Network is a major milestone for Ohio,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “It reflects our commitment to being a state where people of all ages can live, work, and age with purpose. As we plan for the future, adopting age-friendly principles helps us strengthen communities, support families, and position Ohio as a place where businesses can thrive by meeting the needs of a multigenerational population. This is about building a resilient, forward-looking state where every Ohioan has the opportunity to succeed.”
“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.”
Age-friendly communities are places where the built environment (like streets, parks, and housing) and the social environment (like civic engagement, social participation, and intergenerational connection) work together to support people at every stage of life.
Age-Friendly Ohio will focus on the Eight Domains of Livability framework model, including transportation, housing, outdoor spaces, civic participation, and social inclusion. These domains serve as a framework for state and communities to:
- Design public spaces that are accessible, inviting and welcoming.
- Expand housing options that meet people’s needs at every stage of life.
- Foster opportunities for people to stay connected, engaged, and active.
- Make it easier to get around safely, whether by foot, bike, bus, or car.
Ohio’s statewide designation builds on strong local momentum: 36 cities, towns, and counties across Ohio are already members of the AARP Age-Friendly Network. These communities have been working to improve livability through local planning, infrastructure upgrades, and programs that support aging in place.
Ohio’s aging population presents not only challenges but also opportunities. Adults age 50+ contribute $8.3 trillion annually to the U.S. economy, representing 40% of GDP. Age-friendly communities attract and retain talent, support caregiving families, and create environments where businesses can innovate to serve a broader customer base. Investments in healthy aging and age-friendly infrastructure have been shown to yield a 3:1 return in economic and healthcare benefits.
As part of the AARP Age-Friendly Network, Ohio will begin a multi-year planning and implementation process, engaging stakeholders across sectors to assess needs, set priorities, and track progress. The Ohio Department of Aging will lead coordination efforts, working closely with local governments, businesses, nonprofits, and residents.
AARP Ohio will work closely with local governments, nonprofits, and community leaders to provide best practices, data, and resources that help towns, cities, and counties become more age friendly.
“We’re also excited to roll out new opportunities for training, technical assistance, and community grants to help local leaders bring this vision to life,” said Carlson.
Launched in 2012, the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities helps local leaders and residents design and implement strategies that support healthy aging. Participating communities focus on key areas that shape daily life, from housing and transportation to social participation and health services.
Nearly 40 percent of Americans currently live in a community that's enrolled in the AARP network. Many localities embed age-friendly strategies into comprehensive plans, zoning laws and transportation policies.
To learn more about Age-Friendly Ohio and how to get involved, visit: aarp.org/AgeFriendlyOhio.
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