Local governments in South Korea, Canada, and Colombia are implementing age-friendly city policies to promote independence and reduce isolation for older adults [1, 2, 3, 4].
These initiatives matter because the built environment and local policies directly shape how people age. Urban design influences the health, social participation, and autonomy of seniors, determining whether they remain active members of society or face systemic isolation [1, 3, 4].
In South Korea, the government is providing support and formal designations for local governments that implement policies tailored to older adults [4]. According to a Jan. 13, 2026, announcement, the Ministry of Health and Welfare said local governments that adopt these tailored policies will be designated as ‘age-friendly cities’ [4].
North America has seen similar efforts in West Vancouver, Canada. A spokesperson for the District of West Vancouver said the district applied for and received a designation from the provincial government to be an age-friendly city [2]. This designation was received in 2012 [2].
Similar efforts are expanding in South America. HelpAge International said Colombia has the potential to become a model for how societies can thrive when people of all ages are included [3]. These programs focus on removing physical and social barriers that prevent seniors from accessing essential services, ranging from transportation to healthcare, within their own neighborhoods [1, 3].
The World Health Organization has highlighted these efforts as part of its daily-dose series, emphasizing that city design can mean the difference between independence and dependence for an older person [1]. By adjusting infrastructure and social services, cities can ensure that aging does not result in a loss of dignity or community connection [1, 3, 4].
“Local governments that implement policies tailored to older adults will be designated and supported by the government as ‘age-friendly cities.’”
The shift toward age-friendly urban planning reflects a global response to aging populations. By integrating accessibility and social inclusion into city infrastructure, governments are moving from a reactive healthcare model toward a preventative social model that reduces the long-term cost of senior care and improves public health outcomes.
