Dallas adopts age-friendly plan for seniors

The City of Dallas is making it possible for all generations to thrive with the adoption of the Age-Friendly Dallas Plan. The plan is developed by citizens, community organizations and is in partnership with the Senior Affairs Commission (SAC) and City leadership and staff. The plan serves as a road map for making Dallas into a place that is livable and where all generations can thrive.

“The Office of Community Care is excited city council has chosen to adopt the Age-Friendly Dallas Plan,” said Jessica Galleshaw, Office of Community Care Director. “This will help Dallas be better prepared for increasing population of older adults and make the City an enjoyable place to live for those of all ages”

Dallas’ population consists of 1.3 million people, and it is ranked the ninth-fastest growing community of people age 65 and older in the country. Nearly 24% of the city’s population today is over age 50.

The Age Friendly Dallas Plan was developed with the input of 40+ community partners and include 7 domains of livability, as well as recommended strategies within each domain. Additionally, the plan highlights which local organizations and partners are actively engaged and involved in each of the identified domains. The domains are:

1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
2. Transportation
3. Housing
4. Social Participation/Inclusion
5. Civic Participation and Employment
6. Communication Information
7. Community Support and Services

The SAC will now work to align its sub-committee work, advocacy efforts and recommendations with the Plan. Additionally, SAC members will serve as stewards and volunteers to support efforts that help Dallas to be an Age-Friendly Community.