In 2018, there were just over 9,500 residents of Fishers over the age of 65.  In 2040, that number is projected to exceed 23,000.  That has spurred the city to formulate an age-friendly action plan.

“The Age-Friendly Fishers Action Plan is the next step in creating a vibrant community where all ages and abilities can thrive,” said Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness in a city news release. “This project showcases how our community can come together to share ideas and work collectively to improve our city.”

The plan focuses mainly on a 2-year period, 2020-2022. The Age-Friendly Committee, comprised of community stakeholders and City staff, was established to guide the creation of this Action Plan. To create the plan, the committee gathered feedback from the community through public input sessions, community events, and a digital feedback form on the City of Fishers website.

“One of the great strategies about this plan is that we did not create it in a vacuum,” said Tish Biggs, a member of the Age-Friendly Fishers Committee and a volunteer with AARP. “It was created with the input of lots of folks around the City. We went to the Fishers Farmers’ Market and solicited input, we went over to Del Webb to meet with folks over there, we had a meeting at City Hall where we invited people to come in, and we just used those as listening sessions to hear what the community wanted.”

The plan focuses on five key strategies, including:

• Create innovative facilities, amenities, and resources that enhance the use of the park system for all ages and abilities.
• Promote aging in place efforts in housing development that allow residents to remain in their home and community as they age.
• Develop age-friendly strategies for transportation improvement and maintenance.
• Simplify access to healthcare and services.
• Increase access to information regarding community programs, services, and social events by providing a centralized location for resources.

You can read the entire action plan at this link.