Australia recognised in good practice guide on age-friendly projects
From Men’s sheds combating social isolation in New South Wales to an award-winning caregiver coaching program in the United States, a new online report has collated some of the best examples of age-friendly initiatives across the globe.
From Men’s sheds combating social isolation in New South Wales to an award-winning caregiver coaching program in the United States, a new report has collated some of the best examples of age-friendly initiatives across the globe.
The report, 2015 Age-Friendly Report: Inspiring Communities, draws together 16 international case studies on innovative projects and programs that have the potential to be replicated in other parts of the world.
Produced by AARP International, a seniors advocacy organisation based in the US, the case studies describe the key results, learnings as well as costs of each age-friendly initiative.
The 16 communities featured in the report are working toward becoming more age-friendly, either as a member of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities or the World Health Organization’s Global Network of Age-friendly Cities and Communities, or both.
“Individually and together, these case studies show the inspiring work communities are undertaking and promoting to meet the needs of older adults. Creating great places for people of all ages enables older residents to participate in community life,” AARP International said.
Some of the projects profiled include a phone-based, volunteer-run coaching initiative that delivers support to family carers, a ‘Grandparents Park’ in Kansas and a program that utilises a mobile app to help make streets and sidewalks in Washington more walkable for older people.
The pioneering Men’s Sheds concept, which originated in Australia before it became a global movement, was also recognised for its contribution to promoting social participation and inclusion, as well as access to health information for older men. Beyond building and woodworking projects, the breadth of sheds that have emerged, including those targeting men with physical or cognitive disabilities, addiction, and helping men find to jobs or learn computer skills was also acknowledged.
Read the full good practice guide: ‘2015 Age-friendly report: inspiring communities’
It’s very positive to see Men’s Sheds recognised for their tremendous contribution to connection and well-being for men in our communities. We know how important connection and friendship are for feeling good whatever age you are.