In honoring of Older Americans Month, the State of Washington has officially joined forces with both AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities and USAging’s Dementia-Friendly America networks. This partnership, as announced on May 7, aims to bolster the state’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its aging population by improving access and inclusivity in various spheres.

The integration into these networks is a result of persistent efforts by key state departments, including the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), and the Health Care Authority (HCA), according to a joint news release. Cities such as Puyallup, Seattle, and Tacoma, have already been trailblazers with projects that pave the way for safer streets and a variety of housing alternatives for older residents. Each center dedicated to the elder community showcases the potential of such focused initiatives, and now, the statewide embrace of these networks means resource sharing and technical support for aging-friendly infrastructure across Washington.

"These programs advance Washington’s commitment to inclusivity for all," Governor Jay Inslee was quoted saying in the release. He emphasized the move as one to "ensure more communities around the state have opportunities to provide improved quality of life for each resident." Such statewide endeavors, he added, underscored recognition of the dignity of every Washingtonian, regardless of age or ability.

The twelfth to receive such a designation nationally, Washington had its commendable efforts mentioned by AARP Washington State Director Marguerite Ro. "We congratulate Washington as it becomes the twelfth state in the nation to enroll in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly State and Communities," Ro stated, signaling support for the innovative strides taken to enable residents to age with grace and confidence within their community.

This new partnership not only promises to foster a more robust support system for the elderly but also affirms the state’s dedication to developing an environment where all stages of life can be navigated with dignity and ease. Through collaborative efforts among the state's health departments, older adults in Washington will have more opportunities to live actively and connectedly, integral to their homely surroundings, as stressed by the DOH, DSHS, and HCA.