In aligning with the unifying platform of “livability” Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker has emphasized the importance of aging in place with dignity and respect. For Salt Lake City, this means it is the ability to choose to stay where you are as you get older and to have the options that allow you to adapt to changes common with aging, such as health issues, transportation, housing and living on a fixed income. By creating a Committee that has the focus of Aging in Place and implementing programs that assist in making Salt Lake City a livable city for all generations, the Mayor’s initiative has galvanized departments and sectors to collaborate into considering the needs of older adults.

As the population of older adults continues to increase, Salt Lake City recognizes the importance of providing the services and infrastructure that allow older adults to adapt to the changes of aging with dignity and independence. Many of our older residents have expressed the desire to continue living inside the familiarly and comfort of their own homes; others have a desire to live in the heart of an urban environment where cultural activity is easily accessible. This has led us to the launch of our Aging in Place initiative, a critical lynchpin in our overall Livability Agenda. The initiative focuses on eliminating barriers and supporting the potential challenges that may arise as our residents age. This includes accessible transportation and infrastructure, affordable housing, participation in cultural events, and an environment that supports the overall health and well-being of older adults.

Salt Lake City is incredibly fortunate for the close partnership with the University of Utah Center on Aging, where experts come to collaborate and research the critical impacts and issues associated with aging populations. This joining of forces has allowed Salt Lake City to receive cutting-edge research and information that can go directly into the creation of effective services and policies. It is through the work and efforts of these partnerships that contributes to the livability for all ages in the Salt Lake City community.

Accomplishments of the Aging in Place Initiative:

• 2013 Established an active Aging-in-Place Committee comprised of various City departments
• 2013 Released Aging-in-Place Report and Action Plan
• 2015 Released 5,000 Doors Initiative, addressing Salt Lake City’s housing options for low-income, fixed income, and persons with disabilities
• 2015 Launch of the website aginginslc.com which hosts an abundance of resources for aging adults