What does it really mean to be an age-friendly community—and does the work make a measurable difference? A new study suggests the answer is a resounding yes.

Drawing on more than a decade of data from the AARP Livability Index and insights from over 1,000 members of the national age-friendly network, researchers are beginning to see clear, positive outcomes tied to intentional community efforts.

📊 The Research at a Glance

In a study released in August 2025, researchers Xue Zhang and Mildred Warner analyzed 646 communities participating in the AARP age-friendly network. These communities—spanning 10 states, 211 counties, and 425 localities—were evaluated using Livability Index data from 2015 to 2024.

The findings are encouraging:

➡️ 70% of communities saw an increase in their overall livability score
➡️ Improvements were most significant in areas where communities have direct influence

🌱 Where Communities Are Making a Difference

The greatest gains were seen in key areas like:

• Neighborhood – safer, more accessible environments
• Engagement – stronger social connections and civic participation
• Opportunity – better access to services and resources

Notably, the study found meaningful progress in:

✔️ Access to grocery stores, parks, and exercise opportunities
✔️ Improved safety and accessibility
✔️ Reductions in crime and traffic collisions

These are the everyday factors that shape quality of life—and they’re exactly where local efforts can have the biggest impact.

🤝 The Power—and Limits—of Local Action

The AARP Livable Communities team highlighted this research as an important step beyond storytelling. While success stories are powerful, this data provides concrete evidence that age-friendly initiatives are working.

At the same time, the study underscores an important reality: communities cannot solve every challenge alone. Broader systems, policies, and partnerships are essential to sustaining and expanding this progress.

🌟 Why This Matters

For those working in aging services, municipal leadership, and community planning, these findings validate what many have long believed—intentional, data-informed efforts lead to real change.

Age-friendly work isn’t just a feel-good initiative. It’s a proven strategy for building safer, more inclusive, and more connected communities for people of all ages.

📎 Want to dive deeper? The full research report offers additional insights into how communities are measuring and advancing livability across the country.