Strengthening Collaborations: AARP and AD Join Forces for Age-Friendly Initiatives

Serving older adults is an intricate process that thrives on collaboration. Establishing connections and fostering cooperation are fundamental to maximizing opportunities for providing comprehensive services.

On Tuesday, April 9, Dr. Laura Trejo and the Aging & Disabilities executive team welcomed representatives from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) to AD’s Vermont Corridor offices. The AARP delegation included Sarah Jennings, Andres Castillo, Rafi Nazarians, and Luis Campillo.

These meetings serve to fortify the longstanding partnership between Aging & Disabilities (AD) and AARP.

Dr. Trejo provided an insightful overview and update on Purposeful Aging Los Angeles (PALA), elaborating on the program’s plans and regional approach. She highlighted the involvement of AARP partners from various regions not only across California, but also South Dakota, and New York.

The gathering offered an invaluable opportunity for AARP stakeholders from across the nation to gain insight into successful strategies for enhancing age friendliness in the Los Angeles region for older adults and multi-generational residents alike.

PALA stands as a pioneering initiative and partnership between the County and City of Los Angeles, other municipalities, AARP, private sector entities, and universities. This collaboration aims to prepare the Los Angeles region for the significant demographic shift expected by 2030, with the ultimate goal of becoming the most age-friendly region globally.

With AARP’s support, PALA has been designated as an Age-Friendly initiative, highlighting AARP’s pivotal role in fostering age-friendly environments. Through its affiliation with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, AARP facilitates the enrollment process for U.S. communities seeking age-friendly designation.

AD extends our heartfelt gratitude to AARP for their visit and reaffirm our commitment to ongoing collaboration. Together, we look forward to advancing age-friendly initiatives and enhancing the quality of life for older adults across our communities.