May 22, 2025 — Cleveland — Yesterday, the City of Cleveland proudly celebrated its 35th Annual Senior Day, a vibrant event bringing together thousands of older adults from across the city for a day of connection, appreciation, and community spirit. Held at Cleveland Public Auditorium, the event featured live entertainment, health screenings, resource booths, and remarks from city leaders honoring the invaluable contributions of Cleveland’s older population.
Building on the momentum of this joyful celebration, the city is excited to announce the launch of the Age-Friendly Cleveland 2025–2028 Action Plan, a comprehensive roadmap designed to make Cleveland a more inclusive, accessible, and supportive city for residents of all ages and abilities.
Developed in collaboration with multiple city departments, community stakeholders, older adults, and service providers, the plan outlines strategic initiatives across key domains, including:
- Outdoor Spaces and Buildings: Enhancing the accessibility and safety of public spaces to encourage active lifestyles.
- Transportation: Improving mobility options to ensure seniors can navigate the city with ease.
- Housing: Expanding affordable and adaptable housing solutions to meet the diverse needs of aging residents.
- Social Participation: Fostering opportunities for engagement to combat isolation and promote community involvement.
- Respect and Social Inclusion: Cultivating a culture that values and integrates the wisdom and experiences of older adults.
- Civic Participation and Employment: Creating avenues for seniors to contribute meaningfully through work and volunteerism.
- Communication and Information: Ensuring timely and accessible information dissemination tailored to older audiences.
- Community Support and Health Services: Strengthening the availability and coordination of health and support services.
- Sustainability and Emergency Preparedness: Enhancing environmental resilience and readiness through reliable emergency services, sustainable resource management, and education on energy efficiency and waste reduction.
"Our seniors are the backbone of Cleveland's rich history and vibrant community," said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. "The Age-Friendly Action Plan is our commitment to ensuring that as our residents age, they continue to thrive in a city that supports their needs and celebrates their contributions."
The plan reflects Cleveland's dedication to becoming an age-friendly city, aligning with the World Health Organization and AARP’s framework for age-friendly communities. It emphasizes equity, inclusivity, and the active involvement of older adults in shaping the city's future.
"Cleveland is proud to have led the way in Ohio by joining the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities in 2015,” said Mary McNamara, director of Cleveland’s Department of Aging. “Our early commitment to creating a city that supports residents of all ages has inspired a statewide movement, with 35 communities across Ohio now part of this growing network. Together, we are building a more inclusive, accessible, and livable future for everyone.”
To learn more and get involved, please visit: Age-Friendly Cleveland 2025–2028 Action Plan.
