Daly City is taking significant strides to enhance the quality of life for its older residents through the newly presented Age Friendly Action Plan. During the City Council meeting on April 22, 2024, representatives from the Center for Age Friendly Excellence outlined a comprehensive five-year roadmap aimed at addressing the unique needs of the city's aging population.

The action plan, developed after extensive community engagement, identifies eight key domains where older adults face unmet needs: outdoor spaces and buildings, transportation, housing, social participation, communication and information, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, and community support and health services. The plan is a response to a citywide survey conducted between January and June 2023, which gathered insights from 174 residents about their experiences and challenges.

Key initiatives highlighted in the plan include improving pedestrian safety, enhancing transportation options, and providing resources for affordable housing. The council emphasized the importance of creating a safe and accessible environment for all ages, with specific strategies to promote social participation and reduce isolation among seniors. This includes expanding existing programs and ensuring that activities are inclusive and accessible.

Council members expressed strong support for the action plan, recognizing the growing demographic of older adults in Daly City. They discussed the necessity of establishing a senior advisory board to ensure ongoing representation and input from the older community. The council also highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness workshops, particularly for seniors who may be vulnerable during disasters.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to fostering an age-friendly environment, with plans to regularly evaluate and adapt the action plan based on community feedback and changing needs. As Daly City prepares for a future with an increasing number of older residents, this proactive approach aims to ensure that all citizens can age gracefully and with dignity.