Villages are grassroots organizations that provide community-dwelling older adults with a combination of nonprofessional services, such as transportation, housekeeping, and companionship, as well as referrals to existing community services, sometimes at a reduced rate
Deeper Dive
A “Village” takes a consumer-oriented approach that aims to promote aging in place through a combination of member supports, service referrals, and member engagement.
Unlike Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs) and other home and community-based models, Villages are initiated and governed by their members. Villages charge annual dues rather than fees for individual services. Many also rely on grants to make up the cost difference.
Beacon Hill Village in Boston established the first community model in 2001; since then, dozens more have sprung up around the U.S. According to AARP, “this consumer-driven and person-centered approach can help delay or even prevent the need for institutional care.” The Village-to-Village Network, a national peer-to-peer network that helps guide establishment and management of these communities, lists over 200 existing villages; more than 150 others are in development.