Wauwatosa, Wisconsin Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
1/11/2022

Lead Agency: Wauwatosa Health Department

Government Agency

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. Housing

    Support aging in place through a newly expanded home repair assistance program and recruiting volunteers to help older adults with yard work and snow shoveling.

  2. Health and Community Services

    Increase community awareness on emergency preparedness and improve emergency response protocols.

  3. Social Participation

    Work with local schools to create intergenerational activities and invest in infrastructure -- such as benches -- that facilitates social interactions. Offer digital skills training to help older adults stay connected online.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

West Allis Fire Department (2024)

West Allis, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: HomeFit Modifications

Description: Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, yet many homes lack basic safety features. To reduce risks, firefighters installed grab bars, raised toilet seats, shower chairs and bed transfer rails during home visits, along with walkers for those with mobility challenges. These changes helped older adults navigate their homes safely and maintain independence. One widow said the modifications gave her confidence to move without fear, adding, "It feels like someone truly cares about me and my safety."

Dominican Center (2024)

Milwaukee, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: In Milwaukee's Amani neighborhood, speeding cars and unsafe crossings put older adults at risk, especially after one was struck near a church. The project installed a temporary traffic calming circle and added painted crosswalks, picnic tables and buddy benches. The benches feature vibrant designs created by local artists, along with older adults and youth. More than 300 residents joined Pedestrian Safety Month events, building momentum for permanent solutions like raised crosswalks. Community advocacy continues with city officials to secure lasting infrastructure changes that make streets safer and foster neighborhood pride.

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

LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED

Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages

Visit AARP.ORG/LIVABLE
people icon

Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities

Check out the Livable Library
download icon

Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter

Subscribe now!
mail icon

Connect with your AARP State Office

AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

AARP Wisconsin State Office

222 W Washington Avenue
Suite 600
Madison, WI 53703
United States

Phone: 866-448-3611
Fax: 608-251-7612
Email: [email protected]