SAN DIEGO (KGTV)- Thursday San Diego city leaders announced the city will be joining AARP’s network of age-friendly communities.
This means elected officials have made a commitment to prepare for San Diego’s aging population with policies that will focus on AARP’s “8 Domains of Livability” which include communication, civic participation, housing and transportation.
At a press conference in front of San Diego City Hall, Councilmember Chris Ward said the city is committed to building a “sustainable and inclusive city where San Diegans of all ages and abilities can have long, active, and productive lives.”
San Diego now joins Chula Vista, La Mesa, and the County of San Diego in becoming an age-friendly community.
“San Diego’s membership in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities and our local partnership with The San Diego Foundation are essential to helping residents live easily and comfortably in their homes and communities as they age,” said Ward.
“This is just the beginning, the hard work begins, the implementation part of it is where it’s at,” said Joe Garbanzos with AARP California. “It’s good to see that the city recognized that this is good framework to use to help advance livable communities in the area.”
Kevin Mayor Faulconer was not present at the news conference, but wrote the following statement.
“Here in San Diego we’re focused on building more affordable housing, increasing mobility choices, and creating livable communities to improve the quality of life for all San Diegans, including older adults,” said Faulconer.
“We also recognize the importance of preparing for San Diego’s aging population with policies that enhance healthy aging, civic participation, and social inclusion. I look forward to working with AARP California to continue those efforts so that we can meet the current and future needs of our residents.”
Across the county the number of people 65 and over is projected to double by the year 2030.
