OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Old Orchard Beach recently became one of a growing number of municipalities what are members of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities.

According to data from the Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission, in 2015 about 24 percent of the population in Old Orchard Beach were 55 or older. 

In the application to become an Age-Friendly Community, Assistant Town Manager V. Louise Reid wrote that  Old Orchard Beach is a place where many people who spent time in in their earlier years choose to come back in their retirement to live there permanently. 

The AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities encourages communities to become better equipped to address the needs of the aging population by observing closely the environmental, economic and social factors that influence the health and well-being of older adults, according to information from AARP.

Membership includes a multi-step process of improvement that includes putting together an action plan, assessing community needs and gathering and evaluating information, according to AARP.

Old Orchard Beach joined the network in August. Kennebunk became an age-friendly community in 2015 and Saco and Biddeford became Age-Friendly communities in 2016.

Reid wrote in the application an Age-Friendly Committee will address the areas of transportation, health and public service, and any other areas of need.

The committee will survey the town’s elderly to determine what their needs are, and communicate through newsletters, social media, the town website and press releases.

Reid wrote in the application the town hopes in joining the network to help residents live with grace and dignity as they age.

“We are anxious to be part of this mission because we realize that we have in many measures helped people getting old rather than helping them enjoy it. We talk about the “Golden Years” but for many they do not find much gold. However, we believe that there is a treasure – if know where to look,” wrote Reid. 

Reid said the town aspires to be inclusive in its age friendly outreach and provide services to opportunities for personal growth and economical stability.

“We are anxious to be an instrument of positive change and utilize our efforts both in strategy and administration of a program that will enhance the good life for those who live in our community,” wrote Reid.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].