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.

Champaign-Urbana's progress report focuses on public transportation access and improved communication with residents about the value of older adults. The community expanded its rural transit system, with ridership increasing 25 percent. To help more people use the service, it went fare free in 2020. The local age-friendly initiative also worked to provide an online transportation directory to residents. The Urbana Parks District deployed its "mobile recreation vehicle" -- a van that brings recreational, educational and wellness programming into neighborhoods. Champaign-Urbana also championed older adults in local news media, part of larger efforts to combat ageism. The University of Illinois joined the Age-Friendly University Global Network and is exploring ways to make its campus more welcoming to older adults. Additionally, the University launched an age-friendly internship program.