Salt Lake County Designated Utah's First Age-Friendly Community by AARP

Salt Lake County, UT - Salt Lake County is proud to announce its recent designation as an Age-Friendly Community, a significant milestone that recognizes the county's commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and accessible environment for residents of all ages.

This designation, part of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, highlights Salt Lake County's dedication to fostering neighborhoods that promote healthy aging and enhance quality of life through safe streets, affordable and suitable housing, accessible transportation, vital services, and opportunities for civic and social engagement.

Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson made the announcement during a press conference at the Millcreek Community Center, a vibrant hub that includes a Senior Center, Recreation Center, and Library—all under one roof. She was joined by Alan Ormsby, State Director of AARP Utah, as well as leaders from Salt Lake County's Office of Regional Development and Aging & Adult Services. The choice of venue underscored the County's commitment to age-friendly planning, as the Millcreek Community Center serves as a model for the kind of integrated, intergenerational community spaces the initiative aims to promote.

"Being recognized as an Age-Friendly Community highlights our ongoing efforts to ensure that every resident—regardless of age—can thrive," said Mayor Wilson. "This initiative strengthens our focus on inclusive planning, sustainable community development, and quality services for older adults and people of all ages."

Salt Lake County's designation as an AARP Age-Friendly Community builds on decades of dedicated efforts in serving older adults and fostering regional development. Established over 45 years ago, Aging & Adult Services operates 15 senior centers, delivers over 392,000 home-delivered meals annually, and offers evidence-based classes, supportive services, volunteer opportunities, and person-centered programs that help older adults age in place. In addition, the Office of Regional Development convened planners, policymakers, and aging advocates from across the county at last fall's annual Regional Solutions conference to explore strategies and best practices for aging in place. Both agencies, alongside Mayor Wilson, have been active voices in Governor Cox's Aging WISE initiative, which seeks to make investments to promote the well-being of older Utahns.

Salt Lake County joins a growing movement of communities across the country committed to becoming great places to live for people of all ages. Salt Lake County is the first community in Utah to receive this designation from AARP.

For more information about the Age-Friendly initiative, visit slco.to/agefriendly.

About Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services
Aging & Adult Services is a Division of Salt Lake County Human Services that promotes independence for older adults through advocacy, engagement, and access to resources. Salt Lake County is a federally designated Area Agency on Aging. Learn more, volunteer, or access services by calling (385) 468-3200 or the link below.

About Salt Lake County Office of Regional Development
The Office of Regional Development supports thriving communities across Salt Lake County by advancing regional planning, housing, economic opportunity, and sustainability. Through collaboration with cities, community partners, and local businesses, ORD delivers smart solutions that strengthen neighborhoods and preserve our natural environment.

About Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation
Established in 1946, Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation is committed to "Improving lives through people, parks, and play." Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation operates and maintains parks, trails, open space, golf courses, recreation centers, swimming pools, ice centers, and Wheeler Historic Farm.

About the County Library
The County Library is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of our community by inspiring imagination, satisfying curiosity, and providing a great place for everyone to visit. You belong at the County Library and your interest to read, create, learn, play, and connect is supported by our employees, programs, collection, and online resources. Early and lifelong learning, as well as equal access for all, are at the forefront of all that we do.