Ikäystävällisiä

"Ikäystävällisiä" is a Finnish term that translates to "age-friendly" in English. It refers to environments, services, or initiatives designed to be suitable and supportive for people of all ages, with a particular focus on older adults. The concept emphasizes creating communities where older individuals can participate fully, remain independent, and maintain a good quality of life.

Age-friendly initiatives often address various aspects of daily living. This can include accessible public transportation, safe and well-maintained public spaces, housing options that cater to changing needs, and opportunities for social engagement and continued learning. The goal is to reduce barriers that older people might face, such as physical accessibility issues, social isolation, or lack of access to necessary services.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been a significant proponent of the age-friendly movement, promoting an "age-friendly cities" framework. This framework outlines eight key domains: outdoor spaces and buildings, transportation, housing, social participation, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, communication and information, and community support and health services. By focusing on these areas, communities can become more inclusive and supportive for their aging populations. The "ikäystävällisiä" approach seeks to benefit not just older adults but the entire community by fostering intergenerational connections and creating a more harmonious living environment for everyone.