Creating age-friendly communities for all

As the population ages, the need for age-friendly communities has never been more critical. But what does "age-friendly" truly mean? Does it look different for native and immigrant older adults? And how can we create neighborhoods that support well-being for all? 

"This project helps us understand how we can ensure that older adults, with and without a migration background, can age well in their own neighborhoods. It contributes to better care and support for older adults in society."
Professor AP (Anna Petra) Nieboer 
Professor at Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management

Prof.dr. Anna Petra Nieboer and Prof.dr. Jane Murray Cramm are leading a groundbreaking research project, funded by the NWO Open Competition, to explore these questions. Their goal is to uncover how older adults, both native and immigrant, perceive their communities and how these environments impact their well-being. 

Why this research matters 

Despite growing awareness of age-friendly communities, there is still little understanding of how different groups of older adults experience their neighborhoods. Without this knowledge, it is challenging to develop effective policies and interventions that truly meet their needs for them to grow older in their own neighbourhoods. 

A research-driven approach 

To bridge this gap, the study will use a theory-guided approach to examine: 

• How older adults engage with their communities 

• The resources available to them at both individual and neighborhood levels 

• The conditions that support well-being

Innovative research methods 

The project will use a mixed-methods design, including: 

• Q-studies – Combining in-depth interviews and quantitative analysis 

• Pilot & Main Surveys – Conducted in Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and Amsterdam 

• Focus Groups – Gathering insights from diverse older adult communities 

By breaking new ground in the study of age-friendly communities, this research will provide valuable evidence to guide policies, enhance support systems, and improve the overall well-being of older adults in the Netherlands.