Carmel designated as AARP Age-Friendly Community

Submitted by City of Carmel

The City of Carmel announces that it has officially been designated as a member of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. This national designation recognizes the city’s ongoing commitment to developing policies, programs and infrastructure that enable residents to live comfortably, safely, and actively at every stage of life.

The AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities evaluates cities based on key domains of livability, including housing, outdoor spaces, transportation, community health, and social inclusion. Joining the network connects Carmel to a global framework of communities dedicated to preparing for an aging population.

“Carmel has always strived to be a community where people can grow, thrive and remain active throughout their lives,” Mayor Sue Finkam said. “Receiving this designation validates our commitment to thoughtful urban design, accessible infrastructure and inclusive civic programming. We are honored to join this network as we continue working to make Carmel a welcoming home for all generations.”

Celebrating community connection: Intergenerational Conference for Seniors

Demonstrating this age-friendly vision in action, the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Senior Living hosted the Intergenerational Conference for Seniors on Friday, Oct. 16, at University High School. The full-day event brought together city representatives, community members, advocates, local organizations, and students to share insights, resources, and dialogue across generations.

The conference featured an engaging lineup, including two keynote speakers, two interactive breakout sessions featuring 10 presenters, a comedy performance, a popular vendor fair offering resources on wellness, living, and active aging, and involvement of several University High School students.

The success of this annual conference was made possible through the leadership of Mayor Finkam and City Councilman Rich Taylor, along with special thanks to University High School for serving as host, and the generous event, meal, and beverage sponsors whose support ensured a successful and engaging experience for all attendees.

“Events like this conference highlight the exact heart of our mission,” said Carol Applegate, Chair of the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Senior Living. “The commission works tirelessly to ensure that our senior population feels seen, valued, supported and connected across every generation. Earning the AARP designation gives us even greater momentum as we advocate for accessible opportunities and build a stronger, more connected Carmel for everyone.”

Next steps: Age-Friendly Action Plan informed by local feedback

To fulfill the requirements of the AARP designation, the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Senior Living is hard at work developing Carmel’s multi-year Age-Friendly Action Plan. This effort is directly informed by feedback collected from community members who participated in the city’s recent community survey.

Data and insights gathered from the survey will guide the commission as it establishes actionable goals across key livability area including housing accessibility, pedestrian mobility, transit options, and public health support to ensure the plan reflects the real needs and priorities of Carmel’s aging population.