Diversity and integration

We are all getting older… Take Norway for example. By 2040, it is estimated that every third inhabitant in the county councils will be above 70 years old. As of today, 17 % of the Norwegian population is above 65 years old. This development poses several challenges for cities, counties and communities.  

That is why the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS) has published a new handbook on best practices in terms of Universal design and age-friendly communities. From a flower garden to help access memories to outdoor lighting that creates a sense of security, all the initiatives participate in building a sense of safety and belonging for everyone.

Universal design is about creating good, inclusive communities where everyone can participate. By learning from each other, local and regional authorities can create better communities that are inclusive for everyone.

Over the past few years, KS has developed networks in both the area of age-friendly local communities and Universal Design. They have gained considerable insight from learning about best practices and pertinent tools. They gathered all of this information in a number of publications and videos that they made available for their network of municipalities and partners.

In the newly translated booklet on Universal design and age-friendly communities, KS presents some of the many inspiring and innovative initiatives carried out by Norwegian municipalities and county councils. The purpose is to give everyone better access to outdoor spaces, meeting places and buildings. Furthermore, the project aims to create opportunities for everybody to learn from one another, so that local and regional authorities can make inclusivity a reality.

Photo: Fredrik Naumann / Felix Features