8-15-2024 9:57pm

Hillsborough Becomes the First Town in Somerset County to Become Enrolled in the AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities

Donnella Tilery Editor

Mayor Robert Britting, Jr. - Hillsborough Township

Hillsborough is now enrolled in the AARP’s network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, the first town in Somerset County to receive this recognition.

The AARP’s Age-Friendly Network encourages states, counties, cities, towns, and rural areas to prepare for this country’s aging population. The network encourages elected officials and local leaders to focus on and strengthen the features and services that help to make communities livable for residents of all ages.

“It’s our privilege to not only achieve enrollment in the AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities but to also ensure that Hillsborough’s residents age in an environment that is safe and accessible for all ages,” said Deputy Mayor and Planning Board member John Ciccarelli.

As announced in May 2024, Hillsborough seeks to incorporate age-friendly principles into its master plan update. As New Jersey’s population continues to shift to include a greater proportion of older adults, Hillsborough is conscientiously planning for the needs of its aging residents by taking proactive steps to ensure people can comfortably age in place.

Launched in April 2012, the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities is an organizational affiliate of the World Health Organization Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. Through the age-friendly program, AARP helps enrolled communities to become age-friendly by creating safer and more walkable streets, needed housing and transportation options, better access to key services, and opportunities for residents to participate in community activities.