Columbus, Ohio Print
Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
7/31/2015
Lead Agency: The Ohio State University College of Social Work
Institute of Higher Education
Action Plan Download
Columbus developed its action plan with the goal of improving transit, community programs, and public spaces. Columbus is also working to make businesses more age-friendly, and is partnering with the Better Business Bureau of Ohio to list age-friendly businesses that aim to hire older adults. Columbus is working with community partners to expand a streetcar pilot with the goal of expanding public transit around the city.
Action Plan Highlights
Outdoor Spaces
Adopt standards for inclusivity and accessibility across city-owned buildings, departments, and open spaces.Housing
Assist older adults and individuals with disabilities find vetted contractors for home modifications through new funding mechanisms.Health and Community Services
Prepare older adults and first responders to react effectively in case of emergency.
Progress Report Download
Columbus and Franklin County's age-friendly progress report highlights new programs and an expansion in the capacity of existing programs through increased funding, integrating older adult volunteers and their "elder advisory council" into all their work. Columbus has encouraged local businesses to become more age-friendly by partnering with the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio to create a list of age-friendly certified businesses. The community has also prioritized increasing the walkability of sidewalks and streets through tactical urbanism projects and other streetscaping improvements. Columbus has also partnered with key local stakeholders to conduct workshops on eviction prevention, empowering older adults to age in place.
