lifelong Maine leaders
inspiring municipalities to think "age-friendly"

This was one of the messages shared by Anne Krieg, Director of the Community & Economic Development Department for the City of Bangor during a panel session at the Maine Municipal Association convention.  The annual event was held in Bangor in early October and this year, Anne, who also facilitates the Bangor Livable Community Steering Committee was joined by Candy Eaton, Age-Friendly Sullivan Coordinator, and Christine Landes, Chelsea Town Manager.  Their session underscored how age-friendly initiatives can offer meaningful involvement for residents of all ages, outside traditional town boards and regulatory roles.

The presence of age-friendly leaders at the MMA convention was an exciting offering, as it provided an opportunity to share effective strategies communities can use to listen to, include, and support older adults. In Bangor, for example, the Livable Community Committee provides input on municipal projects. Committee members advise on how signage could be improved and other such topics.

The session also highlighted the adaptability of age-friendly work to any community, whether urban or rural, large or small.  Candy Eaton of Age-Friendly Sullivan shared strategies her community used to create a "compassionate community of neighbors supporting and welcoming new and aging residents." With the town's median age rising by 6.3 years between 2000 and 2010, their livable community initiative has prioritized helping older residents thrive at home. This approach fostered over 20 community projects, from an organic garden to exercise groups, and established a culture of shared vision and mutual respect where all residents are inspired to contribute.

With multiple perspectives from a variety of Maine’s age-friendly communities, the speakers were inspired by the audience engagement. Candy reflected “the best part of the presentation was the Q&A with many of the communities who are contemplating becoming an Age-Friendly Livable Community.” Ultimately, the leaders’ message was clear: creating age-friendly communities is not just beneficial but essential for building stronger, more connected communities across Maine.