In June 2018, Goffstown and Portsmouth became the first members in New Hampshire of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. What does this mean for Goffstown?

Well-designed, livable communities promote health and sustain economic growth, and they make for happier, healthier residents - of all ages. - AARP

An age-friendly community means adopting features like:

• Safe, walkable streets
• Better housing and transportation options
• Access to key services
• Opportunities for residents to participate in community activities

Our membership provides access to AARP Network's global resources, information, and provides opportunities for partnerships, mentoring, and peer-review by member cities.

The AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities targets improvements in eight areas that influence the health and quality of life for all as we age:

• Outdoor spaces and buildings: Availability of safe and accessible recreational facilities.
• Transportation: Safe and affordable models of private and public transportation.
• Housing: Availability of home modification programs for aging in place, and a range of age-friendly housing options.
• Social participation: Access to leisure and cultural activities, including opportunities for older residents to socialize and engage with their peers as well as with younger people.
• Respect and social inclusion: Programs that promote ethnic and cultural diversity, multigenerational interaction, and dialogue.
• Civic participation and employment: Paid work and volunteer activities for older residents and opportunities to engage in the formulation of policies relevant to their lives.
• Communication and information: Access to communications technology and other resources so older residents can connect with their community, friends and family.
• Community support and health services: Access to home-based care services, health clinics, and programs that promote wellness and active aging.

Communities participating in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities commit to improving their livability through an assessment of needs, development of an action plan, implementation of new projects and programs, and ongoing assessment – all with the involvement of older residents - in three phases over a five-year period, with continued cycles of assessment and improvement thereafter.

For more information:

• AARP Livable Communities
• AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities
• Becoming Age-Friendly Facebook Page
• Listen to the conversation on NHPR.org The Exchange “N.H. Communities Seek to Become ‘Age Friendly’ For Both Seniors and Millennials” 2/6/17

Nationwide, 263 communities representing 70 million residents have received the Age-Friendly designation from AARP.