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Resident urges Niskayuna to join AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities
Summary
Gerontologist Jude Rabig presented the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities program and urged the town to use the network’s free assessment tools to plan for accessibility, transportation, housing adaptations and social participation for a locally high senior population (28.36%).
Jude Rabig, a resident and gerontologist, told the Finance & General Government Committee that Niskayuna should evaluate joining the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities, a voluntary national program that offers free assessment tools and technical assistance.
"My name is Jude Rabig, and I'm a gerontologist," Rabig said, explaining that the program examines eight domains of livability — outdoor spaces, transportation, housing, social participation, respect and inclusion, civic participation, communication and health services — to guide community changes. She noted that about 28.36% of Niskayuna residents are seniors, well above the national average of 16.84%.
Rabig highlighted practical examples small and large municipalities can pursue, from installing accessible benches and ramps to organizing intergenerational programming with schools and improving communications accessibility for people with vision or hearing limitations. She said the program’s initial step is a community-wide assessment and that many resources and some grant opportunities are available to support implementation.
Committee members said the topic is timely and welcomed the concise presentation. The chair thanked Rabig for volunteering to assist the town and noted the committee could invite her back for a longer discussion.
The committee did not take action at the meeting; members requested the presentation materials be circulated with the meeting packet and discussed next steps at a future meeting.
