Creating Age-Friendly Environments for All Ages

Did you know May is Older American’s Month? We raise awareness this year with the theme “Flipping the Script” to highlight the contributions of older people. We are reminded to view aging not as a period of decline but as a time of growth, opportunity and active participation in society. USC-VHH Community Resource Center for Aging (aka: Resource Center) endeavors to challenge stereotypes and recognize the dynamic roles that older individuals play in our community. “Flipping the Script” urges all of us to make a positive impact and honor the valuable insights and experiences of an older population.

The AARP Age-Friendly movement is designed to create environments that promote healthy aging and enhance the quality of life for people of all ages. The movement focuses on two key domains: cities and healthcare to address the unique needs of older adults while fostering inclusive communities that benefit everyone. 

On April 18 the La Cañada Flintridge Age-Friendly Project Team joined forces with the Resource Center by inviting Stephanie Fajuri, Esq., director at Center for Health Care Rights (pictured in middle) to educate on how to compare Medicare options. After all – this is the health insurance many of us apply for around our 65^th birthday.

Age-friendly cities are communities that work to intentionally support the health, well-being and active engagement of older adults. Recognizing that the demographics of many cities (such as ours) are shifting, a staggering 11,200 Americans are turning 65 every day! The Age-Friendly movement encourages municipalities to adopt practices and policies that ensure older adults live independently and participate fully in society.

Age-friendly healthcare systems are those that provide high-quality, patient-centered care designed to address the medical and social care needs of older people. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released a new Age-Friendly Hospital Measure this year to improve care and ultimately health outcomes. The mandate for healthcare systems is to adopt practices that improve the accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness of care for older adults.

Those who would like to discuss personal social care needs (or those of a family member), the USC Verdugo Hills Hospital invites you to call the Community Resource Center for Aging at (818) 949-4033, or email Aging-Resources@med.usc.edu to consult with a Resource Specialist at no cost. 

Together, the continued expansion of age-friendly practices and policies in our community will ensure that people of all ages enjoy a high quality of life and age with dignity. 

Happy Older American’s month!