Washington state has recently joined AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. This statewide commitment builds on the efforts of cities like Puyallup, Seattle, Tacoma and Renton, who have already joined the network and embraced age-friendly projects and initiatives. “Here in Washington, the older population is growing, and what we’ve heard from our residents is that, in fact, people want to stay at home and in communities as they get older,” said Marguerite Ro, AARP Washington state director. Age-friendly projects include promoting safe and walkable streets, providing an array of housing options and creating ways for residents to become and stay involved in the community. “As older adults age, they’re going to be able to do that with dignity, respect and with confidence,” Ro said. Americans are living longer, so projects to support people as they’re aging have become increasingly important. “The kind of things we’re doing, I think, are moving the needle to help people age with dignity and happiness and health, and that’s working for us,” said Washington Governor Jay Inslee. Washington has also joined USAging’s Dementia-Friendly America initiative where communities across the country are taking action to become dementia-friendly by leveraging resources and partners across community sectors. “With dementia care, I’m hoping that it will become less of a stigma for people who do have that,” said Washington First Lady Trudi Inslee. Governor Inslee wants to ensure all areas of government are thinking of aging adults as they make decisions, including ensuring safe, walkable communities and educational opportunities. Programming at parks and zoos also helps older adults connect with the community and their loved ones. “These small things to give people opportunities to get out and enjoy your families in the outdoors can make a big difference,” Gov. Inslee said. Governor Inslee plans to leave office in January 2025, but Ro hopes the next governor will continue to build upon Inslee’s work. “He’s really laid a very strong foundation for us to build upon and really thinking about those 820,000 unpaid family caregivers who could use more support,” Ro said. To learn more about resources for caregivers and older adults, visit the AARP website. Sponsored by AARP Segment Producer Suzie Wiley. Watch New Day Northwest at 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.