Institute of Higher Education

An action plan is based on the results of community surveys identifying needs within the 8 Domains of Livability that influence the health and quality of life of older adults. While there is flexibility in how a plan is created and what it will do, every action plan includes a statement about what can be achieved, target dates for goal completion, identification of participating organizations and indicators to measure progress. The action plan is an "active" rather than static document. Revisions and amendments are a sign of program improvement and progress.

Columbus and Franklin County's age-friendly initiative worked with local government partners, as well older adult volunteers and their Elder Advisory Council to implement programs related to transportation, housing and the local business environment. To give residents more transportation options, Columbus piloted a new circulator bus and secured funding for travel training for older adults. They also demonstrated walkability and streetscape improvements through a tactical urbanism project on the city's Near East Side. To help older adults age in place in the community, the City and County held eviction prevention workshops and launches an intergenerational cohousing pilot that brought college "students in residence" to an older adult housing complex. Additionally, the City of Columbus partnered with the local Better Business Bureau to create a directory of age-friendly businesses.