HomeMy WebLinkAboutAge Friendly 2026 COW PresentationAge-Friendly Renton
Update
Maryjane Van Cleave -Parks and Recreation Administrator
Jennifer Spencer –Recreation Director
A Community for All Ages
What Does “Age-Friendly” Mean?
AARP defines an Age-Friendly community as:
An inclusive and accessible environment that
enables people of all ages to actively
participate in community life and age safely,
independently, and with dignity.
The framework is based on the World Health
Organization’s eight domains of livability.
Why This Matters to Renton
Communities across the world are looking for ways to accommodate the growing population of
older adults. Due to longer lifespans and decreasing birth rates, older adults make up a larger
percentage of the population than ever before.
In Renton, seniors over the age of 65 will make up an estimated 20% of the population by 2030. It
is the city’s goal to provide a community where its senior population will remain active,
independent and vibrant members of their community.
Why Parks & Recreation
Leads This Work
The Parks & Recreation Department functions
as civic infrastructure creating the physical
spaces, systems, and services that support
community health and belonging.
The Senior Activity Center serves as the physical
anchor of this work, while our staff provide the
trusted relationships and experiences that bring
residents back and keep them connected.
Renton Age Friendly Survey Results
92%get info from family/friends
85%use the Senior Activity Center
65% report daily activities not limited
61%use the Library
56% cite safety as key factor in housing
decisions
49% of the respondents wanted to stay in their
home as they aged and never move.
41%use faith-based organizations
49% of respondents want to remain in
their homes permanently.
79% report that maintaining
independence is extremely important
to them.
75% are unsure about available
transportation options.
Renton Age Friendly Survey Results
Continued
Health Rating Percent
Very Good / Excellent 55
Good 33
Other 12
Maintaining diverse health and wellness
programming
Farmers Market nutrition program
FD CARES Partnership
RPD senior safety programming
Multilingual service guides
Congregate & Specialty lunches
Health & Safety Progress Domain
Key Initiatives:
Website updates
Multilingual materials
Print distribution
Communication & Information
Domain Progress
Annual resource expo
Technology classes
Utility bill insert
Senior → HRAP → Utility Assistance →
Tax Relief → King County Programs
Housing Domain Progress
HRAP awareness
Utility assistance outreach
Multilingual materials
Senior housing master list
Partnership with AARP
housing forums
Transportation Domain
Progress
Public Works lead and partnership
Metro Access
Hyde Shuttle
Metro Flex
ORCA LIFT
Volunteer transportation
Printed information at Senior
Center on transportation options
Staff training on transportation on
options and resources
Ride-share options
Driver Safety Course
Designing for Every Generation
Create spaces that are safe and accessible for all ages
Ensure housing options support aging in place and multigenerational living
Provide parks, trails, and community spaces that accommodate children, adults, and older adults
Design transportation options that are convenient, affordable, and accessible
Promote community engagement through inclusive programs and volunteer opportunities
Encourage flexible, adaptable design to meet changing needs over time
Our community thrives when housing, mobility, and public spaces allow every
generation to live safely, independently, and fully engaged, today and as we age
This effort is…
Operational
Senior Center | Human
Services Grants |
Recreation Programming
Interdepartmental
Parks & Recreation | Human Services | Fire Transportation | Police Communications | Public Works
Foundational
City Infrastructure |
Communication Systems |
Data Tracking | Partnership
Coordination
Q & A