Knowledge and Action – Building Capacity on Age-Friendly Environments

The "Knowledge and Action – Building Capacity on Age-Friendly Environments" project was initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2023 and is supported by a grant from the Public Health Agency of Canada. Implemented at the international level, this project aims to support the global uptake of the Age-Friendly Communities (AFC) model by improving access to capacity-building resources, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Key measures include adapting the existing MENTOR-AFE distance mentoring program into additional languages, formats, and geographic contexts, including the Americas, Africa, and Central and Eastern Europe. Additionally, the project will develop an introductory online course on age-friendly environments to make resources and successful experiences accessible to jurisdictions less advanced in AFC implementation. The immediate outcome will be improved availability and access to high-quality online and in-person mentoring and learning opportunities on age-friendly communities and environments (AFE) for both English and non-English speakers. Over the longer term, the project aims to increase the global uptake of the AFC model, resulting in positive health impacts and enhanced quality of life for older persons in communities implementing the model. The project is scheduled for completion in 2025.