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AARP Vermont is proud to announce that the Town of Milton’s Age-Friendly Action Plan (2025–2030) has been officially approved by AARP and adopted by the Milton Selectboard. This milestone represents a significant step in Milton’s ongoing commitment to becoming a more inclusive, accessible, and livable community for residents of all ages.
A Vision for All Generations
Milton joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities in 2023, showcasing its commitment to creating a space where individuals of all ages can thrive. The newly adopted Action Plan builds on this foundation, outlining a thorough strategy to improve the quality of life for older adults while also benefiting the entire community.
Developed through extensive community engagement—including a public survey with 173 responses—the plan reflects the voices and needs of Milton’s residents. Key findings from the survey revealed that 60% of seniors consider aging in place "extremely important," and 23% of Milton Recreation users are seniors, highlighting the demand for accessible community programs and services.
Strategic Initiatives for a Livable Milton
The Age-Friendly Action Plan outlines several initiatives aimed at creating a more supportive environment for older adults:
- Recreation & Accessibility Improvements (2025): The Milton Recreation Department will apply for accessible benches along the Town’s Perimeter Path and add ramps to three downtown park pavilions, enhancing mobility and comfort for residents with varying needs.
- Proposed Paramedicine Program (2026–2028): To address the increasing demand for non-emergency rescue services, the Milton Rescue Chief and Public Safety Director propose the establishment of a community paramedicine program. This initiative aims to provide routine wellness visits, reduce non-emergency 911 calls, and improve overall emergency response efficiency.
- Intergenerational Engagement: The plan emphasizes the importance of fostering connections across age groups through co-located childcare and senior programming, volunteer opportunities, and inclusive civic participation.
Commitment to Inclusivity and Quality of Life
Cymone Bedford, Milton’s Planning and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director, played a pivotal role in integrating aging demographics and DEI considerations into the town’s comprehensive planning efforts. Town Manager Don Turner expressed pride in Milton's leadership, stating, “Milton is committed to making our town a place where we can all age with a high quality of life, and we are proud to lead the way in Vermont.”
Looking Ahead
As Vermont anticipates that nearly 27% of its residents will be over the age of 65 by 2030, Milton's proactive approach serves as a model for other communities looking to become more age-friendly. By addressing key areas such as housing, transportation, social inclusion, and health services, Milton is laying the groundwork for a future where all residents can age with dignity and purpose.
For more information on Milton’s Age-Friendly Action Plan, please visit the official document. If you’d like to get involved in the work happening in Milton, please contact Cymone Bedford: cbedford@miltonvt.gov
To learn more about the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, visit AARP Livable Communities.
Together, we can build communities that support and celebrate residents of all ages.
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