Laying the groundwork for an Age-Friendly University: A multi-method case study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Higher Education Studies
• Community Engagement

Background:

• Higher education institutions are increasingly focused on older adult engagement.
• The Age-Friendly University (AFU) network is expanding globally.
• Universities aim to support lifelong learning, career development, and intergenerational connections for seniors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate barriers, facilitators, and opportunities for an Oregon public university to become more age-friendly.
• To understand the experiences of older community members with the university.
• To inform the university's AFU vision and strategies.

Main Methods:

• Multi-method case study approach.
• Surveys administered to 46 senior center members.
• In-depth interviews with 9 survey respondents.
• Photovoice participatory action research with 7 older adults and 12 students.

Main Results:

• Identified key opportunities for enhancing age-friendliness.
• Strengthening partnerships with the local senior center is crucial.
• Developing a dedicated lifelong learning center is recommended.
• Addressing physical accessibility barriers on campus is necessary.

Conclusions:

• The university can implement AFU principles to better serve older adults.
• Findings offer insights for other institutions aiming to become age-friendly.
• Strategic improvements can foster greater intergenerational engagement and support lifelong learning.