Simsbury, Connecticut Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
2/14/2019

Lead Agency: Town of Simsbury Aging and Disability Commission

Age-Friendly Taskforce/Advisory Council/Commission

Action Plan Download

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.

Action Plan Highlights

  1. Outdoor Spaces

    Improve community accessibility and comfort for older adults by advocating for the enforcement and expansion of accessible parking spaces, promoting the installation of a protective awning at the Senior Center entrance, supporting the development of a new, single-level, fully accessible Community Center, and increasing the number of benches along main town thoroughfares to enhance walkability and rest opportunities.

  2. Transportation

    Promote safe and accessible transportation options for older adults by advocating for the expansion of Dial-a-Ride services to increase mobility and independence, and encouraging participation in the DMV's Blue & Green Envelopes program to support safe driving practices for individuals with cognitive or communication challenges.

  3. Housing

    Expand housing affordability and accessibility by supporting strategic property tax abatements for both older residents and rental property owners, offering financial incentives for income-limited accessory dwelling units (ADUs), proposing developer incentives to increase the supply of affordable housing, sponsoring educational seminars on preparing homes for aging in place, and advocating for permit fee reductions for accessibility-related home modifications.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Town of Simsbury (2025)

Simsbury, CT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: Many residents needed clear guidance on how to remain safe and independent in their homes as they aged, and local leaders saw a gap in accessible information about home modifications and assistive technology. The town's Aging and Disability Commission subcommittee hosted three events that offered practical advice from experts, hands-on demonstrations through the Smart Home on Wheels and direct access to service providers at an Aging-in-Place Expo that drew more than 250 attendees. Residents received the AARP HomeFit Guide and connected with builders, attorneys, transportation providers and others who could help them plan changes that support aging in place. Strong feedback prompted nearby towns to inquire about replicating the model. The subcommittee now plans to make the Expo a yearly event to sustain these connections and help more residents prepare for long-term independence.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Town of Simsbury (2026)

Simsbury, CT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: Portable ADA compliant pathway mats will be placed at parks, trails and outdoor venues. These pathways will provide stable access across grass, sand and uneven ground.

ABOUT THE AARP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE

Launched in 2017, the annual AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to local governments and nonprofits in order to fund quick-action, ready-to-implement projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages.

See all nearby projects

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AARP Connecticut State Office

21 Oak Street
Suite 104
Hartford, CT 06106
United States

Phone: 866-295-7279
Fax: 860-249-7707
Email: [email protected]