Age- and Dementia-Friendly Washington
In 2024, Washington became part of AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities and USAging’s Dementia-Friendly America networks, entering into collaborations that will help people in our state thrive in their communities as they age. This Age- and Dementia-Friendly Washington initiative is the result of ongoing collaboration between Washington State’s Department of Health, Department of Social and Health Services, the Health Care Authority, and other key partners serving older adults. It is supported by the Age- and Dementia-Friendly Advisory Group.
These partners build upon efforts of cities like Puyallup, Seattle, Tacoma, Renton, and White Salmon, which have embraced age-friendly projects and initiatives like promoting safe and walkable streets and providing an array of housing options and ways for residents to become and stay involved in the community. Communities like Eastsound (Orcas), Spokane Area, and Seattle have adopted dementia-friendly practices. For example, Seattle Parks and Recreation’s Lifelong Recreation program includes dementia-friendly recreation opportunities for people living with memory loss including Art in the Park, Memory Loss Zoo Walks, and more.
The next step in this important initiative is to develop an Age- and Dementia-Friendly Washington Action Plan. This Action Plan will enable and empower us to prepare our communities for the future. The goal is to give every person the confidence to live well as they age and provide them with the resources to lead a healthy lifestyle.
In fall 2025, the Age- and Dementia-Friendly Advisory Group fielded an online survey to gain feedback from people throughout Washington. We now invite interested people to join us for a deeper conversation in one of our Community Forums for Action Planning in April 2026. Together, we can build communities that support dignity, independence, and connection for all.
For additional information please see:
- Press release May 7 2024 WA State Becomes an Age-and Dementia-Friendly State (link to the Press Release from May 2024)
- Washington Age- and Dementia-Friendly State Designation