Project lead: Older People’s Association

• Local authorities
• Civil Society Organisation
• Older People’s Association
• Social or health care provider
• Volunteers
• Private sector

How collaboration worked: Collaboration occurred with the Town of West Springfield’s Department Heads, local business leaders, older adult participants of the Council on Aging, assistance from Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (planners), recent housing production plan, park improvement plan and Town Master Plan.

Older people’s involvement: Older people were involved in the age-friendly practice at multiple or all stages

Details on older people’s involvement: Older adults helped by filling out surveys, attending listening sessions, offering input and suggestions and encouraging others in the community to participate in this initiative.

Has the impact of this age-friendly practice been analysed: No

Do you plan to evaluate your age-friendly practice? Yes

Expansion plans:
We plan to expand our age friendly practice by including Dementia Friendly into the plan. This means our community will: Continue to strive to reduce stigma associated with cognitive impairments, Work to continue educating the public about Alzheimer’s and related Dementias, Promote creative approaches in order to serve those who have cognitive impairment and Support the Alzheimer’s Association with their annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Reflections:
It was challenging to engage the public to attend the various listening sessions we held throughout the year. We can continue to look at various venues in the future for additional listening sessions.

Challenges:
It was challenging to collaborate with professionals and lay people. Future meetings should be scheduled at different venues in order to attract more participants.