Developing Age-Friendly Communities In An Emergent Post-Pandemic World: Final Project Report

Kelly, Siobhan; Clark, Andrew

Abstract

This report presents findings from the 'Developing Age-friendly Communities in an Emergent Post-Pandemic World' research project. The Dunhill Medical Trust funded the work, which has been completed by a partnership led by the University of Salford with Inspiring Communities Together, Age UK Salford, and Manchester Metropolitan University. The report consists of three sections:

Section 1: provides some context and rationale for the work, outlines the aims, and describes how the data it contains was collected in three strands.

Section 2: presents findings in four thematic sections:
• Isolation and adaptation: Social shifts during and after the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Changes in age-friendly service provision: Innovation, collaboration, and challenges.
• Local as a lifeline: Community support, engagement, and green space.
• Beyond lockdown: Continued challenges and enduring complexities.

The report integrates data from all three strands of data collection to illuminate the impacts on older people’s social interactions, access to services, community engagement, and overall well-being. By investigating these areas, the report challenges the prevailing notion that life has returned to normal for older people as we transition into the next phases of the pandemic. Instead, it highlights the persistent, opportunities adaptations, and complexities that continue to shape this groups daily lives and relationships.

Section 3: provides an account of the enduring legacies of the pandemic, examining the interconnectedness of the issues raised, and considers potential long-term implications for the design and development of age-friendly communities. It also provides key takeaway messages and recommendations for service providers, policymakers, and community organisations in developing strategies and services to support older people as we move beyond the pandemic.

Citation

Kelly, S., & Clark, A. (in press). Developing Age-Friendly Communities In An Emergent Post-Pandemic World: Final Project Report. Dunhill Medical Trust

• Report Type: Project Report
• Acceptance Date: Sep 25, 2024
• Deposit Date: Sep 25, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 30, 2024