Boston's Age Strong Initiative Expands Services for Older Residents Amid Growing Needs

In a recent meeting focused on the fiscal year 2026 budget, Boston's Age Strong Commissioner Emily Shea highlighted the city's commitment to enhancing services for its aging population. With May being Older Americans Month, Shea emphasized the importance of celebrating and supporting older adults, who are increasingly active in community programs and events.

Boston's older population has surged nearly 50% since 2010, with a notable increase in diversity among residents. This demographic shift brings urgent challenges, as 70% of individuals aged 65 and older face economic insecurity, often living on incomes that fall short of their expenses. In response, Age Strong is working to expand resources, particularly in transportation and programming, to ensure that all older residents can age with dignity and security.

The Age Strong team, which has grown to over 100 members, is dedicated to providing essential services such as transportation, benefits enrollment, and outreach for programs like Medicare and SNAP. Shea noted the importance of community engagement, with hundreds of events and programs designed to foster social connections and reduce isolation among older adults.

The initiative has also seen significant funding efforts, distributing over $7.4 million in federal and state grants to support various aging services, including nutrition programs and behavioral health services. Despite facing challenges such as federal funding cuts, Age Strong remains committed to addressing the needs of older residents through innovative programming and partnerships.

Looking ahead, Age Strong plans to launch a community ambassador program and continue expanding its outreach efforts, ensuring that every older adult in Boston has access to welcoming spaces that promote health, connection, and overall well-being. As the city prepares for the future, the focus remains on creating an inclusive environment where aging is embraced as a time of opportunity and growth.