The Power of Community: Aging Forward is on a Mission to Uplift Older Adults Across America

Aging Forward, a national alliance of affiliate organizations, is transforming how society views and supports aging. Since 1972, it has continued championing a future where older adults are not just cared for but celebrated—where longevity is seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge.

With affiliates all over the US and new programs popping up every day, Aging Forward is leading the charge in building stronger, interconnected communities that empower older adults to live with purpose, connection, and dignity. A new affiliate program set to launch in April will bring volunteer transportation services to an underserved area, marking another milestone in the alliance’s mission.

For those involved in these initiatives, the impact is deeply personal. As one leader of a new community effort put it: “I’ve had a successful career, but this—this is by far the hardest thing I’ve ever done. And it’s also the most rewarding.” This sentiment underscores the profound impact that well-designed community programs can have—not only on the older adults they serve but also on those who help build and sustain them.

As the global population shifts, the importance of community-driven initiatives has never been more urgent. Census Bureau research shows that by 2034, older people will outnumber children. This is a first in recorded history. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization estimates that by 2050, the number of people over 60 will have doubled.

Despite these staggering statistics, Sarah Cheney, Executive Director of Aging Forward, emphasizes a different perspective. “The aging population is a beautiful thing. People are living longer lives. So let’s make sure those longer lives are as special as possible.”

Too often, discussions around aging are framed in terms of burdens—on healthcare, on finances, on housing. Aging Forward has been changing this narrative for over 50 years. The goal is not just to extend life expectancy but to enhance quality of life, ensuring older adults remain vibrant, engaged, and valued members of their communities.

Aging Forward was among the first organizations in the country to implement its model of community-driven aging services. Over time, similar initiatives emerged independently, each tailored to the needs of its local population. Now, the alliance is calling for greater collaboration, recognizing that no single organization has all the answers—but together, they can create lasting change. “We can learn from one another,” Cheney affirms. “No one knows your community better than you. And we’ve been working alongside these communities for more than 50 years. Let’s help one another help society.”

One recent example comes from a woman in Florida who was considering a move to Richmond, Virginia, to be closer to her son. The decision wasn’t easy—she was deeply involved in her local community and hesitant to leave behind the connections she had built. But after discovering that Richmond also had a Shepherd Center—one of Aging Forward’s affiliates—she felt confident in making the move. The presence of a supportive, like-minded community was the key factor in her decision.

Stories like these illustrate Aging Forward’s broader vision: a world where every older adult, no matter where they live, has access to the support, education, and social engagement they need to thrive.

The need for robust, well-integrated aging services is only growing. With medical advancements and healthier lifestyles extending life expectancy, the question is no longer just ‘how’ long people will live but ‘how well’ they will contribute to society.

Aging Forward’s model is adaptable, allowing communities to implement programs that align with their unique needs. Whether an organization is just starting, already established, or unaware of the resources available, Cheney encourages collaboration: “We want to make it easier for programs to start, but we also know there are many existing initiatives that could benefit from the resources, credibility, and shared knowledge of a national network. Volunteers and community leaders take pride in knowing they’re part of something bigger.”

This collective approach has already proven invaluable. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Aging Forward affiliates quickly pivoted to offer virtual classes and safety protocols, ensuring that older adults remained engaged and safe despite social distancing restrictions. More recently, as federal funding for aging services has faced uncertainty, organizations within the alliance have leaned on each other for guidance and support, preventing communities from navigating these challenges alone. 

Some describe the demographic shift as an age wave or even a silver tsunami—terms that can evoke fear or crisis. But Cheney pushes back against this mindset. “We don’t see this as a problem to solve. We see it as a new chapter in human history. Longevity is an achievement, and we need to approach it with the same optimism we have for childhood development or career growth. Aging should be about living, not just existing.”

Aging Forward envisions a future where no older adult feels isolated, where community support is a given, and where longevity is embraced with enthusiasm. Through strategic partnerships, education, and grassroots efforts, the alliance is making that vision a reality—one community at a time.

And with a goal to expand its affiliate network nationwide, Aging Forward is inviting organizations, leaders, and volunteers to join the movement. “We’ve already reached 165,000 friends,” Cheney says. “But this is just the beginning.”

About Aging Forward

Aging Forward is a national alliance of 55 affiliate organizations, serving over 165,000 older adults annually. We create opportunities for older adults to learn, grow, connect, and give back. United by a shared mission, we support aging as an empowering experience that enriches lives and communities. With the help of dedicated volunteers and partners, we’ve impacted more than 2.5 million older adults—and we’re just getting started! For more information, visit https://aging-forward.org.