Elder Friendly^® Business Certification

The elder population represents a large and growing consumer group. By the year 2010, one in three Americans will be over age 50. Implications for business are clear: Improved access to older consumers and knowledge of their needs are important to be competitive in the business arena. Aging agencies are looking for innovative programs that will enhance the quality of life for older adults while improving the overall health of the agency. Elder Friendly Business Certification is a program that benefits everyone. Elder Friendly Business Certification is a licensed assessment program that provides this needed knowledge. Using specific guidelines, trained elder evaluators from a licensed aging agency "shop" a business anonymously for a nominal fee. Evaluators review the effectiveness of telephone and customer service, building layout and access. They then provide feedback and training information to management. When in compliance, the business is awarded certification in the form of a window decal that lets everyone know this business is Elder Friendly Certified.

Elder Friendly Means Business Cares.

The Elder Friendly Certified Business sticker is placed prominently on a storefront.

Elder Friendly Business Certification was developed by Elders in Action in Portland, OR. The program is available to private nonprofit organizations in other communities for replication through a licensing agreement. Elders in Action is a private, nonprofit organization that advocates for the needs of older adults and serves as the independent advisory council to the Area Agency on Aging in Portland, OR. Our mission: To assure a vibrant community through the active involvement of older adults.