A recent article by Dr. Quichang (Katy) Cao, an assistant professor at the FSU College of Social Work, and co-authors from Rutgers University, Natalie Pope and Dr. Emily Greenfield, was published in the Journal of Gerontological Social Work. The study looked at what older adults value in their engagement in Age-Friendly Community (AFC) initiatives in several geographic regions in the U.S.

The World Health Organization has recognized that an Age-Friendly Community environment is critical to the health and well-being of people of all ages, especially older adults. Older adults’ input and participation have been regarded as an indispensable component of the Age-Friendly Community initiative. However, our knowledge about older adults’ experiences as critical contributors and implementers of Age-Friendly Community initiatives is scarce and fragmented.

Using qualitative methods, Dr. Cao and her research team sought to address a gap in research in this area to understand the first-hand experiences of older adults and their AFC engagement, particularly what they value from this engagement.

The study revealed three themes of perceived value by older participants who were engaging in AFCs:

1. Opportunity for social contribution
2. Social connectedness and integration
3. Engagement and personal growth

The thematic element of social contribution included altruistic intentions and behavior through a commitment to the well-being of people in the community. Participants also felt rewarded when drawing on personal skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others. Opportunities to advocate for community change through Age-Friendly Community initiatives are considered an important way to combat ageist stereotypes of older adults.

The second theme showed that older participants valued interpersonal connections and community embeddedness by participating in Age-Friendly initiatives. Sharing a common goal of improving their community’s Age-Friendliness facilitated interpersonal connections among older participants. Furthermore, the opportunities to address shared concerns in their community and to interact with policymakers through the initiative also enhanced older participants’ community embeddedness.

Dr. Cao and her team demonstrated in this recent study that older adults' engagement in Age-Friendly Community initiatives is “an essential part of community transformation”. Older adults enjoyed advocating for community changes.

“Participating in Age-Friendly Community initiatives is an alternative form of civic participation compared with traditional forms of volunteering that focus only on interpersonal relationships,” said Dr. Cao. “Older adults benefit from this form of civic engagement by having an impact on the policy, physical, service, and social environment of their community.”

Research in this area emphasizes the value of inclusion of all older adults, including those from various socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. “More research is needed to understand how the local community needs and resources (e.g., rural versus urban) impact older adults’ experiences in Age-Friendly Community participation in various geographic areas,” concluded Dr. Cao.

To learn more, contact Dr. Cao at qc22@fsu.edu.