Age-friendly businesses in Boston
Learn about age-friendly and dementia-friendly businesses, and how to certify your company.
An age- and dementia-friendly business is one in which people of all ages and abilities can comfortably shop for goods or services. Certified businesses have taken steps to make their spaces more inclusive. These include:
- ensuring that they have a respectful and patient staff
- providing resting areas and non-slip flooring, and
- using universal symbols, like arrows.
About the program
In 2014, the City joined the World Health Organization network of Age-Friendly cities through AARP.
We are creating policies, programs, and services for older adults. We want people to age within their communities with dignity and independence. One of our 75 action steps is the creation of an age-friendly and dementia-friendly business designation.
- We want to educate businesses on how to make their locations and customer service more inclusive.
- We promote a culture where everyone is able to comfortably age in place and remain active in their community.
- We plan to help businesses thrive with a large and diverse customer base. We want to give older adults access to many goods and services.
- 14% of Boston's population is over 60, and this will increase to 19% by 2030.
- $148.3 billion in 2015 was spent on consumer goods and services by the 50 and older population in Massachusetts. This accounts for 57% of overall consumer spending.
- 16.5% of Boston residents 65 and older have Alzheimer's or dementia.
Related documents
Instead of applying online, you can complete this form.
You’ll go over our checklist with your business ambassador.
Learn more about the numbers behind our program.
Learn more details about the program.