8 Domains of Livability
The 8 Domains of Livability framework is used by many of the towns, cities, counties and states enrolled in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities to organize and prioritize their work to become more livable for both older residents and people of all ages. While some communities tackle all eight domains at once, others choose to focus on fewer or combined domains. Below are the priority areas we are leaning into.
We believe work in these 5 domains is the place to begin.
There are 8 defined domains to be age friendly. We have chosen 5 to begin our work in Billings.
Housing
The Age Friendly Billings Coalition is committed to supporting affordable and accessible housing for older adults. This focus aligns with AARP’s “8 Domains of Livability”, emphasizing inclusivity, safety, and the promotion of physical activity and engagement in public spaces. The population of older adults is increasing at historic rates and older low-income renters face a growing threat of aging into housing instability and homelessness.
Public and Outdoor Spaces
The Age Friendly Billings Coalition is committed to supporting parks, trails, green spaces, safe streets, and accessible buildings that accommodate residents of all ages and abilities. This focus aligns with AARP’s “8 Domains of Livability”, emphasizing inclusivity, safety, and the promotion of physical activity and engagement in public spaces. We recognize and appreciate the existing efforts already underway to improve accessibility and enhance outdoor spaces, and we look forward to working closely with our current partners to expand these initiatives.
Respect and Social Inclusion
The Age Friendly Billings Coalition is committed to supporting inclusive activities and events, promoting awareness and understanding and championing accessibility and equity for the aging population. This focus aligns with AARP’s “8 Domains of Livability”, emphasizing respect and social inclusion for older adults both to enhance the quality of life for seniors but also to enrich the social fabric of the entire community.
Employment and Civic Participation
The Age Friendly Billings Coalition is committed to increasing access to employment opportunities and civic engagement for residents aged 65+. This focus aligns with AARP’s “8 Domains of Livability,” emphasizing inclusivity and engagement for older adults in employment and civic participation.
There are 8 domains of livability, we chose 5.
Why we chose 5?
Starting with five of the eight domains of livability allows Age Friendly Billings to focus its efforts on areas where the most immediate and meaningful impact can be made. By prioritizing specific domains, resources can be allocated more effectively, community engagement can be concentrated, and early successes can build momentum for future initiatives. This approach fosters a manageable scope, making it easier to set measurable goals, evaluate progress, and adapt strategies as needed. By focusing on what is most achievable first, the foundation is laid for sustainable growth and the eventual integration of all eight domains into the community's vision for livability.