Bowdoinham, Maine Print
Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
4/14/2015
Lead Agency: Advisory Committee on Age-Friendly Bowdoinham (ACOA)
Age-Friendly Taskforce/Advisory Council/Commission
Action Plan Download
Bowdoinham developed its action plan in collaboration with the town's Advisory Committee On Aging (ACOA). The action plan commits to infrastructure changes, along with new programs and services, designed to be more inclusive of a rapidly aging community. The plan also states that any new municipal programs run by the community will include input from older residents. The plan focuses on using local volunteer groups to do outreach to tackle age-related challenges, and commits to providing all residents with services regardless of their ability to pay.
Action Plan Highlights
Housing
Help residents with simple home maintenance, repair, and modifications by supporting local groups and contracting out difficult requests.Respect and Inclusion
Capitalize on residents' interests and talents to work on a variety of community improvement projects by providing information about volunteer opportunities on Facebook.Outdoor Spaces
Protect public green spaces through a roadside clean-up program.
Progress Report Download
Bowdoinham's age-friendly progress report shows pedestrian infrastructure improvements, expanded transportation options, development of a volunteer home maintenance program, creation of meaningful social and recreational opportunities, and new communication methods to highlight local events and resources. The town invested in accessible sidewalks that cover 90% of the village area. For residents who are no longer capable of driving or who no longer chose to drive, Rides in Neighbors Cars, an all-volunteer program, takes residents to medical appointments, errands, recreational opportunities, or to socialize with friends or neighbors. People who struggle to perform routine home chores receive help from the Handy Brigade. Age-friendly is included in the town's Comprehensive Plan and an aging lens is included whenever the town considers a change in policy or infrastructure improvement.