Excelsior Springs continues to lead the way in age-friendly community planning, as highlighted in a presentation by Neighborhood Specialist Laura Mize at the recent City Council meeting. The city has achieved Gold Level recognition in the Communities for All Ages program, an initiative led by the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) to help cities implement policies that support residents of all ages.
A Framework for Age-Friendly Growth
The Communities for All Ages program encourages cities to use an “age lens” when making policy and planning decisions, ensuring that infrastructure, housing, transportation, and public services accommodate residents at every stage of life. The program follows a three-tiered framework:
- Bronze Level: Recognizing the importance of age-friendly planning.
- Silver Level: Conducting in-depth assessments of city policies and services.
- Gold Level: Implementing concrete plans and policies to improve livability for all residents.
Excelsior Springs achieved Gold Level status by integrating age-conscious planning into city initiatives, particularly through its Parks and Recreation Department’s 2021 strategic plan. This plan prioritizes inclusive amenities, such as the Boundless Backyard project—an upcoming park designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities, featuring a butterfly garden, walking path, and an all-abilities playground.
ES Aging Well: A Local Task Force for Seniors
In addition to city-led efforts, the ES Aging Well task force plays a key role in advancing age-friendly initiatives. This group, made up of professionals and residents, meets monthly to address the needs of older adults in Excelsior Springs.
One of their priorities has been improving technology access for seniors. Thanks to a $5,000 grant, Senior Center Director Jeff Barge has implemented a technology education program, including training sessions in partnership with the Mid-Continent Public Library. The program helps seniors navigate digital tools and online services, reducing the technology gap that can leave many older adults disconnected.
Expanding Transportation and Home Accessibility
Another challenge identified by seniors in Excelsior Springs is transportation access for medical appointments and shopping. While the city offers transit services, many residents are unaware of their availability. ES Aging Well is working to spread awareness about these services to ensure seniors can remain mobile and independent.
The city has also focused on home accessibility and modifications. Excelsior Springs’ Minor Home Repair Program helps seniors make necessary adjustments to their homes, such as installing grab bars and ramps. Additionally, the city has introduced an incentive program that rebates a portion of building permit fees for developers who incorporate Universal Design elements, making homes more accessible for people of all ages and abilities.
Social Wellness and Community Engagement
Beyond infrastructure, Excelsior Springs is fostering social connections among its older residents. One of its standout programs is Silver Prom, a senior dance event organized in partnership with the Excelsior Springs High School Student Council. The 2024 Silver Prom was a major success, and planning is already underway for next year’s event, scheduled for April 12, 2025.
Additionally, efforts to combat food insecurity have been a focus of the task force. The ES Aging Well team is working to connect downtown residents with fresh produce through the Excelsior Springs Farmers Market and partnerships with the Good Samaritan Center.
A new initiative, A Meal and A Visit, aims to bring hot meals and social interaction to homebound seniors. Led by Jesse Hall, the program is currently securing funding and volunteers. The goal is not just to provide food, but also to ensure that seniors receive regular check-ins from volunteers, helping to prevent isolation.
Excelsior Springs as a Model Community
Excelsior Springs’ success in the Communities for All Ages program has positioned it as a regional leader in age-friendly planning. Mize emphasized that achieving Gold Level status is not the end of the journey but rather a stepping stone for continued progress.
“Every good idea we’ve implemented came from another community that tried it first—except for Silver Prom, that was ours,” Mize said, noting that the city has shared its successful programs with other municipalities.
With continued support from the City Council and dedicated volunteers, Excelsior Springs is ensuring that residents of all ages can live, work, and thrive in a community designed with them in mind.
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