The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) estimates the senior population of Royal Oak to grow by at least 34.8 percent by the year 2045. To prepare for the forecasted growth in the senior population, the Royal Oak Senior Services / Aging in Place Task Force has endorsed the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) “Age-Friendly Communities” program. 

This program utilizes extensive community engagement of the senior population to identify ways to improve city services and design to better accommodate aging residents. Input from residents has the potential to improve future master plan development, land use, and community services.

The 8 Domains of Livability

AARP International has studied efforts in the United States and worldwide to identify projects and programs that are worth sharing and, when possible, replicating. The Age-Friendly Report: Inspiring Communities presents a collection of age-friendly "good practices." 

Age-friendly communities recognize 8 domains of livability.

1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings
2. Transportation
3. Housing
4. Social Participation
5. Respect and Inclusion
6. Civic Participation and Inclusion
7. Communication and Information
8. Community and Health Services

How can you get involved?

The Royal Oak Age-Friendly Action Plan will identify action items for the city to achieve in each of the domains of livability. The development of this plan will be guided by the input and feedback of residents. 

You can share your thoughts and priorities in the following ways:

• Participate in a community focus group – see the calendar on this page. There will be six forums. Each focus group will cover all 8 domains. Each forum will be the same but held in a different location. You only need to attend one to be heard.
• Volunteer to be a facilitator for the community focus groups. Training is required.
• Attend a task force meeting and speak up at public comment.