Age-Friendly Universities (AFU): Possibilities and Power in Campus Connections

Area of Science:

• Higher Education Studies
• Gerontology
• Organizational Change Management

Background:

• Societal age demographics are shifting, necessitating changes in higher education.
• The Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative provides principles for age inclusivity.
• Existing AFU efforts require structured change models for comprehensive implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a change model for integrating age-friendly initiatives in higher education.
• To demonstrate how AFU partners can advance age-friendly efforts on campuses.
• To highlight the importance of relationships in achieving institutional age-friendly visions.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing Hirschhorn and May's campaign approach to change.
• Applying the four core elements: listen in, develop a strategic theme, sweep people in, build infrastructure.
• Examining how AFU partners build connections, coalitions, and partnerships.

Main Results:

• AFU partners are actively implementing age-friendly strategies using a campaign approach.
• The four core elements of the change model are being applied to foster age inclusivity.
• Partnerships and coalitions are central to advancing age-friendly initiatives.

Conclusions:

• Hirschhorn and May's campaign approach provides a viable model for institutional change towards age-friendliness.
• Building robust connections, coalitions, and partnerships is essential for success.
• Sustained age-friendly visions depend on integrated and collaborative efforts within universities.