Tedesco & Freeholders Announce Implementation of Age-Friendly Initiative in Bergen County

Hackensack, N.J. – Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Board of Chosen Freeholders today announced the creation of a county-wide Age-Friendly initiative. A resolution affirming the County’s commitment to this initiative is expected to be adopted by the Freeholders on November 7^th.

“One of the best measures of a community is how it treats its senior citizens,” said County Executive Tedesco.  “We have a lot to be proud of and a lot to look forward to in Bergen County with our new Age-Friendly initiative to promote opportunities for Older Americans. We are looking forward to engaging in the hard work to become a member of the Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities which includes 380 members representing 37 countries.”

“Senior citizens shouldn’t feel as though leaving their home and community is the only option when they reach a certain age, or if they find themselves limited in mobility,” said Freeholder Chairman Tom Sullivan. “Bergen County residents who set down roots in our community should be aided in finding ways to remain where they are; close to family, friends, and the familiarity of their surroundings. This Age-Friendly Initiative is going to have a positive impact on every resident of Bergen County.”

In the United States, the population of people aged 65 and over is expected to grow from 35 million in 2000 to 88.5 million by 2050, taking the total share of the 65 and over population from 12 percent to 20 percent of the total population.

Research shows that older Americans overwhelmingly want to remain in their homes and communities as they age and that access to quality health care and long-term services support is essential for individuals to live in their homes and communities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) developed the Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities Program to encourage and promote public and private policies to increase the number of cities and communities that support healthy aging and improve the health, well-being, satisfaction and quality of life for people as they age.

WHO’s Age-Friendly Cities and Communities Program identifies core characteristics of an age-friendly community in “Eight Domains of Livability;” outdoor spaces and buildings; transportation; housing; social participation; respect and social inclusion; civic participation and employment; communication and information; and community support and health services.