Let’s make Duluth a better place to live
for all ages

The Duluth community has committed to becoming more age-friendly by joining the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities in October of 2021. With your support, we can work together to create and sustain a more accessible, inclusive, and livable community—where people of all ages can live and thrive. 

WHY IT MATTERS

Livable communities start by changing our attitudes about aging

When we collectively dismantle ageist attitudes, policies, and systems, we create a ripple effect of positive changes that foster an environment where individuals can live safely, comfortably, and confidently in all ages and stages of life.

With a projected 33% increase in Minnesotans 65 years or older between 2021 and 2037, Duluth is dedicated to creating and sustaining a livable and age-friendly community where people of all ages can grow up and grow older.

To further this mission, we’ve developed a Community Action Plan that outlines our goals and strategies to transform Duluth into an age-friendly community based on AARP’s 8 Domains of Livability.

8 Domains of Livability

Discover AARP’s framework for driving meaningful change

Outdoor Spaces and Buildings

Communities thrive on shared and accessible spaces where individuals of all ages can gather indoors and out (e.g., elevators, zero-step entrances, and staircases with railings).

Transportation

Public transportation, dedicated bicycle lanes, and safe, crossable streets are vital for enhancing safety, ensuring accessible mobility options, and promoting active and healthy lifestyles for all.

Housing

AARP surveys reveal that most older adults want to reside in their current home or community as they age, which is possible through community design or aging-in-place modifications.

Social Participation

When social connections are made through accessible, affordable, and engaging community activities, we promote a greater sense of belonging and well-being for all ages.

Respect and Social Inclusion

Intergenerational gatherings and activities are a great way to learn from one another and bridge a more profound understanding across different generations.

Civic Participation and Employment

By actively engaging older adults in the community, we can create avenues for paid work and volunteering opportunities that enrich the lives of all residents.

Communication and Information

Diverse and accessible communication methods are essential for sharing information, as not everyone has a smartphone or can readily access the internet.

Health Services and Community Support

Accessible community and health services for all ages are vital, as individuals of all ages may encounter injuries, illnesses, or situations that require medical assistance.

OUR WORK AT A GLANCE

Learn more about the age-friendly progress we’re making in Duluth

Countless groups and organizations are making age-friendly changes in our community. While some efforts directly align with our mission, others enhance our community in ways that indirectly support our goal of making Duluth a livable, age-friendly place for everyone. Here are some highlights of the work under the Duluth Age-Friendly initiative.

AGE-FRIENDLY OUTREACH

WORDS MATTER

MICRO-FUNDING

AGE-FRIENDLY VOICES

CONNECTION & FOOD ACCESS

HOUSING NEEDS

COMMUNITY DESIGN

LUNCH, LEARN, AND SHARE

WELLNESS SUPPORT

COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN

ABOUT DULUTH AGE-FRIENDLY

Discover the mission, vision, and values behind this initiative

The Duluth Age-Friendly initiative is co-led by Mimi Stender from Duluth Aging Support and Jodi Slick from Ecolibrium3, in partnership with the City of Duluth, the Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging, St. Louis County Public Health, the University of Minnesota Duluth, and the Zeitgeist Center for Arts and Community.

In addition to the organizations mentioned above, we’re grateful to Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert, former Mayor Emily Larson, and numerous other supporters whose unwavering commitment and valuable contributions have helped shape Duluth into a better community for all ages.

OUR VISION

Become an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming community where people of all ages can meet their diverse needs, live with dignity, and actively pursue their goals and dreams.

OUR VALUES

Foster a culture of inclusion through a commitment to eight core values: diversity, equity, accessibility, compassion, collaboration, innovation, resourcefulness, and positivity.

OUR MISSION

Enhance the lives of all Duluth residents by collaborating with key partners to create, support, and sustain a vibrant community where people of all ages can live and thrive.

AGE-FRIENDLY RESOURCES

Discover more age-friendly resources at your fingertips

Explore age-friendly resources highlighting the importance of reframing aging and its connection to Duluth Age-Friendly. 

By working together to reframe the narrative around aging, we can challenge ageist perceptions and create a community where everyone, regardless of age, can live and thrive as they grow older. 

GET IN TOUCH

Contact us to learn more about Duluth Age-Friendly

To learn more about Duluth Age-Friendly and how we’re working to create a more inclusive and supportive community for people of all ages, please fill out the brief form to get in touch.