Making Seattle More Livable for All

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Seattle’s age-friendly initiative helped Emerald City residents remain connected by hosting more than 50 virtual events. Collectively, they were viewed more than 12,000 times.

The online community gatherings are among the many ways Age Friendly Seattle has worked to improve the quality of life for everyone. The group has moved closer toward 27 of the 29 goals outlined in its 2018 action plan, according to a five-year progress report that was released in September.

Seattle joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities in 2016. The network promotes the adoption of policies that make localities more livable for all residents.

Age Friendly Seattle leaders are proudest of their work to bring the community’s older adults together in the era of social distancing, says Christina Clem, a communications analyst with AARP Washington.

Age Friendly Seattle’s efforts also include making Pike Place Market easier for people to navigate, working with Seattle’s Department of Transportation to create an age-friendly street design guide, and publishing a how-to on holding accessible meetings and events.

Learn more at seattle.gov/agefriendly.

—Mac McLean