meet Maine's Lifelong Communities

By County By Focus Domain

When the World Health Organization developed its Global Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, 8 interconected Domains of Livaility were identified as key for the well-being and participation of older people in our communities. The 8 Domains of Livability are used by Maine towns, cities, counties, and regions to organize and prioritize their efforts to become more livable for older residents, which benefits people of all ages. Here you will find examples of work in the 8 Domains of Livability--Maine style. 

Are you doing innovative work in one of the 8 Domains of Livability? Please let us know! We would love to highlight your work in the Lifelong Maine News and will add it here when we update this section of the website. 

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all programs, services, and activities developed in each area, but is a sampling of approaches adopted by
Maine's lifelong communities.

Transportation

Includes programs and policies that promote active mobility and access to transportation

Respect and Inclusion

Includes age-friendly business programs and intergenerational activities

Housing

Includes programs and policies that promote safe, affordable housing and the ability to age in place

Social Participation

Includes development of regular social events, arts and humanities programs, and annual community events

Communication and Information

Includes enhanced availability of community information and initiatives to support digital equity and access

Outdoor Spaces and Buildings

Includes improvement of parks or other public lands  and increased accessibility of public spaces

Health Service and Community Supports

Includes improved access to healthcare and social services, food security programs, and caregiving supports

Civic Engagement and Employment

Includes promotion of volunteer opportunities and participation in local and state decision-making processes

COMMUNITY PROJECTS IN THE NEWS


Partnering to Keep Bangor's Outdoor Spaces Pristine

WABI News featured the joint efforts of the Friends of the Lower Kenduskeag Stream (FOLKS) and Bangor Livable Communities, members of which gather monthly to ensure that the trail remains in tip-top shape!  (Click the picture to view the story.)

Danforth Livable Community Center Continuing to Grow

Danforth Livable Communities team renovated a building donated to the town to be used as a community center. It was no small feat to raise the $70,000 needed to renovate the building and additional funding to start programs. Without raising property taxes or using town funds, they raised funds are now offering programs! (Click the picture to view the story.)

Promoting Social Connection in Saco

While social isolation increased for many Mainers during the pandemic, it can be an everyday problem for folks who are homebound.  Learn more about how Saco supports its residents in staying connected in this NewsCenter Maine story.

Fostering Respect & Inclusion with Birthday Cards in Sullivan

In Sullivan, the Circle of Friends ensures that each and every resident feels welcome on their birthday!  See the NewsCenter Maine story on this initiative, part of Age-Friendly Sullivan's work in their community.