CHANDLER, Ariz. – The City of Chandler is now recognized as a Dementia and Age-Friendly community, emphasizing the commitment to supporting residents as they age and ensuring they remain active, safe and connected in Chandler.
Chandler was designated as a Dementia Friendly community in partnership with Dementia Friendly Arizona. The designation recognizes the city’s efforts to be a safe and informed community that supports people living with memory challenges, while fostering education and access with local businesses.
Chandler was also accepted into the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. This network empowers communities to create welcoming environments for older adults, looking broadly at housing, transportation, social participation, outdoor spaces, health services and civic inclusion.
“Approximately 19% of Chandler’s population is aged 60 and older,” said Becky Kuiper, City of Chandler recreation superintendent. “It is imperative that we, as a community, are prepared to support aging adults so they can age with dignity and remain a valued member of society.”
The designations affirm Chandler’s dedication to developing inclusive and accessible resources for aging adults, their families and caregivers. A community survey conducted in September revealed strong interest in addressing age-related challenges – including access to transportation, available community services and awareness of local resources.
To support this work, Chandler has established a task force made up of city staff, nonprofit partners and local business owners. This group will guide the development of an action plan aimed at making Chandler even more accessible, supportive and responsive to the needs of older adults.
The forthcoming plan will focus on:
- Expanding community awareness and education around dementia and aging
- Supporting local organizations through dementia-friendly business training
- Evaluating and enhancing existing city services, programs and public spaces
- Strengthening connections between residents and resources that promote aging in place
Becoming a Dementia Friendly and Age-Friendly community represents an important milestone in Chandler’s long-term commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all ages and abilities.
For more information about Chandler’s initiatives and upcoming resources, visit the City of Chandler.
Dementia Friendly America® is a multi-sector, national collaborative on a mission to foster communities that are equipped to support people with dementia and their family and friend care partners by working to become “dementia friendly.”
The AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities supports the work of local, regional and state governments as they prepare for the nation’s changing demographics. Established in 2012, the Network includes towns, cities, counties, and states that have made a commitment to being more livable for people for people of all ages, and especially older adults.
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