Document Type
Research Report
Publication Date
9-2025
Keywords
aging, community, age-friendly, dementia-friendly, needs assessment
Disciplines
Community-Based Research | Gerontology | Social Welfare
Abstract
In 2022 a steering committee of three Bellingham residents involved in the COA/Senior Center served as a catalyst in helping Bellingham attain the designation of Age and Dementia Friendly. A Task Force including an impressive mix of individuals from town government, schools, local organizations and older residents was formed to help Bellingham set and implement annual goals of activities designed to make Bellingham a good place to grow older for all residents.
This report describes research undertaken by the Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging within the Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston on behalf of the Town of Bellingham. It presents the results of a comprehensive examination of issues relating to aging in Bellingham. A needs assessment was undertaken to support planning on the part of the Town of Bellingham, the Council on Aging (COA)/Senior Center and Age and Dementia Friendly Task Force.
Community Engaged/Serving
Part of the UMass Boston Community-Engaged Teaching, Research, and Service Series. //scholarworks.umb.edu/engage
Recommended Citation
Coyle, Caitlin E.; Burnes, Katherine; and Somerville, Ceara, "Age & Dementia Friendly Bellingham: Assessment of Community Needs and Ideas for Action" (2025). Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging Publications. 110.
https://scholarworks.umb.edu/demographyofaging/110
Executive Summary
Comments
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