PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Aroostook Agency on Aging, in partnership with AARP Maine, invites County citizens to attend one of three informational sessions to learn how their community can become an “age-friendly community.”
All sessions are open to the public, and are planned as follows:
Fort Kent Senior Center, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Presque Isle: Sargent Family Community Center, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Houlton Higher Education Center, Thursday, March 1, 9:30 to 11 a.m.
Joy Barresi Saucier, executive director of the Aroostook Agency on Aging, said age-friendly communities work to help people of all ages live safely and comfortably in their community. They encourage older people to take an active role in making their community a better place for people to live, work, play and do business.
“We are all aging. No matter what our age, our life will be better if our community is strong with good housing, safe and friendly outdoor spaces, and a connectedness that supports and engages all community members,” she said.
AARP Maine currently works with 45 lage-friendly teams across Maine, providing support, education, networking and recognition.
“Age-Friendly Community teams are endorsed by their municipality and led by older people in their community. This is truly a grassroots effort, community by community, to make life better for everyone, especially those aging in our communities,” explained Patricia Oh, Age-Friendly Community team lead, AARP Maine.
“The Aroostook Agency on Aging’s mission is to improve the quality of life, maximize the independence, and promote the well-being of older people in Northern Maine,” said Barresi Saucier. “As part of that mission, one organizational goal is to empower and support the development of age-friendly communities in Aroostook County.”
Barresi Saucier encouraged older people and community leaders to attend and bring a friend or neighbor.
To learn more, contact her at 764-3396 or jbsaucier@aroostookaging.org.
