Our population is ageing. By 2040, more than 40% of the UK population will be aged 50 or over. However, we are not ageing equally or evenly across the country. Rural and coastal areas are ageing more rapidly, and there are significant differences in how long we live and how well we age depending on where we live.
We want more communities to enable people to age well and enjoy a good later life. Taking an age-friendly approach allows places to consider their own distinct assets and challenges, and identify and make the improvements needed across areas such as homes, social inclusion, access to services, and transport. This benefits individuals but can also reduce pressure on health and care systems if more people are able to remain healthy and independent for longer.
WHO Age-friendly Communities framework
The World Health Organisation Age-friendly Communities framework has two models: the Eight Domains and the Four-Step Programme Cycle.
UK Network of Age-friendly Communities
The UK Network is a growing movement of over 100 places across the UK who are committed to making their community a better place to age in. Find out how to join and the support available to members.
Guides and tools
Our tailored guides and tools provide evidence-based, practical support to help communities to become more age-friendly.
Age-friendly practices
Explore a growing collection of practices from across the UK, bringing together practical examples of what works to make communities more age-friendly.
Local evidence and data
Our tools and guidance on where to access data and how to use it to inform the development of local ageing projects and programmes.
