What makes Arnold, Missouri, a designated age-friendly city?

Just 20 minutes south of St. Louis, the city of Arnold offers more than its quiet neighborhoods and convenient location might suggest. At first glance, it feels like a classic Missouri suburb: laid-back, close-knit, and surrounded by nature. But what you might not expect is that Arnold is also a leader in forward-thinking community design for older adults.

In fact, Arnold was the first city in the state of Missouri to be officially recognized by AARP as an Age-Friendly Community. This designation isn’t just symbolic. It reflects a citywide commitment to creating spaces, services, and opportunities that allow people to thrive as they age.

From safe sidewalks and accessible housing to wellness programs and community engagement, senior living in Arnold, MO, is vibrant, connected, and inclusive. This guide looks at what that means in real terms and how Arnold is helping seniors, caregivers, and families plan their next chapter in a place that values people of every age.

What is an age-friendly community?

An age-friendly community plans with intention for every stage of life, focusing on accessibility, safety, and inclusion. That means designing walkable neighborhoods, welcoming public spaces, and local services that meet the changing needs of older adults, without leaving anyone behind.

The Age-Friendly Cities framework was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to global demographic shifts. With a rising population of older adults, the WHO launched this initiative to help cities foster environments where people can age with dignity, independence, and continued participation in their communities.

The framework outlines eight interconnected domains that shape livability for older adults. These domains are meant to work together, offering a holistic approach to age-friendly planning:

1. Outdoor spaces and buildings
2. Transportation
3. Housing
4. Social participation
5. Respect and social inclusion
6. Civic participation and employment
7. Communication and information
8. Community support and health services

In the U.S., this effort is led by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), which coordinates the Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. This network supports local governments in assessing needs, setting goals, and creating tailored action plans.

When Arnold joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities, it became the first city in Missouri to earn the designation. From the start, the city embraced the program as a living framework—one meant to evolve through ongoing cycles of planning, action, and evaluation. This continuous approach ensures that as residents’ needs shift, so too can the city’s strategies, allowing Arnold to grow thoughtfully while staying true to its age-friendly mission.

Let’s take a look at how Arnold is putting that vision into action.

Arnold’s path to becoming age-friendly

The City of Arnold’s journey toward becoming an AARP Age-Friendly Community began with a citizen-driven initiative rooted in local advocacy and a deep concern for improving the quality of life for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

2004: It started with the establishment of the Commission on Aging and Disabilities under then-Mayor Mark Powell. This citizen-led group was created to advise the city on issues affecting older adults and individuals with disabilities. The original membership included representatives from each city ward, community advocates, service providers, and city officials.

2017: The Commission was introduced to the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. After conducting research and community discussions, the network recommended that Arnold apply to join. In September 2017, Arnold’s application was approved, making it the first city in Missouri to be designated an Age-Friendly Community.

2018: The Commission updated its membership structure to better represent the needs of Arnold residents. The new structure included four citizen members, two representatives from organizations serving aging or disabled populations, and three from local businesses, schools, or faith-based groups. Non-voting members from the city and council remained the same.

From there, Arnold began using the World Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Cities framework to guide city planning, expand accessibility, and foster inclusion, making it a place where residents can truly thrive at every stage of life.

Improving accessibility and walkability across Arnold

As part of its commitment to being an Age-Friendly Community, Arnold has taken measurable steps to ensure its public spaces are inclusive, accessible, and designed for residents of all ages and abilities:

• Building accessibility from the ground up
  As part of its Age-Friendly Community initiative, Arnold has prioritized public spaces that are safe, inclusive, and easy to navigate for residents of all ages and abilities. A 2018 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) evaluation provided the foundation for long-term upgrades across city-owned buildings and parks.

• Progressive infrastructure upgrades
  The city committed to phased improvements, starting with features like wheelchair-accessible signage, enhanced restroom facilities, and better parking at locations such as the Farmer’s Market and Ferd B. Lang Park. Completion goals were set at 25% by 2022, 50% by 2025, and full remediation by 2031.

• Prioritizing walkability and mobility
  Arnold launched a citywide assessment of roads and sidewalks, with a focus on making neighborhoods easier to navigate. The plan called for:

  1. Creating smoother, more continuous sidewalks
  2. Improving lighting and safety at intersections
  3. Adding clearly marked crosswalks in high-traffic areas
  4. Incorporating “complete streets” design principles that support walkers, cyclists, and people using mobility aids

• Accessible parks and natural spaces
  Recreational areas like Strawberry Creek Nature Area and Teszars Woods Conservation Area were included in the city’s accessibility plans. Upgrades include ADA-compliant parking, accessible signage, and stable, non-slip surfaces near trailheads and benches.

By embedding accessibility into city planning, Arnold continues to foster independent living in Arnold, MO, creating a safer and more connected community where residents can navigate daily life with confidence at every stage.

Supporting health and wellness for every stage of life

Arnold’s age-friendly efforts prioritize whole-person wellness, not just infrastructure. The city is committed to making sure older adults can access the medical, mental health, and social support they need to live independently and stay active.

A strong local network supports these goals. The Jefferson County Health Department, Compass Health Network (a mental health provider), and various specialty clinics and rehab centers offer services close to home. Community partners also host free or low-cost programs on nutrition, fitness, smoking cessation, insurance navigation, and preventive care, while mobile medical and dental units also supplement local healthcare access, ensuring care reaches even those with transportation limitations.

Part of the city’s action plan is to implement the following senior-focused action plans:

• Care Track Program: A safety initiative that provides wearable tracking devices to residents at risk of wandering, such as those with dementia.
• Visit-A-Bit: A volunteer program that pairs trained visitors with older adults for social check-ins and companionship, reducing isolation.
• Promote information specific to Medicare Assistance: This helps residents better understand and navigate Medicare enrollment and benefits through MO SHIP.

Arnold’s efforts reflect a proactive approach to aging—one that views wellness as a community responsibility. By offering a mix of clinical resources, education, and social support, the city continues to foster an environment where residents can thrive well into their later years.

Housing options that support aging in place

Arnold is actively expanding housing options to support aging in place. With over 40% of residents aged 45 and up, the city has taken clear steps to ensure older adults can live safely, affordably, and comfortably in the community they know. These steps can be broken down into three key points:

1. Universal Design as a standard

   Arnold promotes Universal Design (UD), a framework for building homes that are accessible, safe, and easy to navigate for people of all ages and abilities. A UD Guidebook is distributed to all contractors applying for building permits, encouraging builders to incorporate features like step-free entrances, wide doorways, and single-level layouts into new construction.

2. Expanded supportive housing and assisted living

   In addition to age-friendly design in private homes, Arnold has worked to expand supportive housing options for residents who may require additional care or community services:

   • Rosemont Senior Living offers flexible apartment leasing with access to amenities such as meal preparation, laundry, and maid services, making it a strong option for those seeking independence with light support.
   • RSP Senior Living has multiple facilities in Arnold, MO,  offering a full spectrum of care designed to support aging with safety and comfort.
   • Cedarhurst Assisted Living and Memory Care provides personalized support that helps residents stay independent while enjoying meaningful daily activities, with caregivers available for added assistance when needed.

   Whether you’re moving into a new space or adapting your current home, senior living in Arnold, MO, offers practical solutions to help you age in place with dignity and ease.

3. Home modification resources

   For current homeowners, the city connects residents with local organizations that offer help with home modification services, including:

   • Labor support from churches and nonprofit groups for improvements like ramps, grab bars, and entryways.
   • Access to financial assistance programs such as the Missouri Property Tax Credit and Arnold’s own Utility Credit Program.
   • Partnerships with agencies like the Disability Resource Association and Aging Ahead, which provide expertise and funding for age-in-place upgrades

   Whether you’re searching for a home designed for long-term comfort or looking to upgrade your current space, independent living in Arnold, MO, is supported by practical solutions that help residents maintain comfort, safety, and quality of life.

Lifelong learning at JCL-A

In Arnold, staying engaged doesn’t stop with retirement. The city offers a range of social and educational programs that keep residents mentally active, socially connected, and meaningfully involved in their community, no matter their age.

The Jefferson County Library – Arnold Branch offers a diverse array of programs tailored for adults, fostering community engagement, skill development, and creative expression. Here’s an overview of some notable offerings:

Book lovers can join monthly Romance or bi-monthly Sci-Fi/Fantasy clubs to discuss new titles and connect with fellow readers. Computer Basics classes and Library App workshops help participants build digital confidence, from using email to accessing eBooks. 

For creative minds, the library hosts weekly and monthly craft programs like Charitable Angels Sewing Club, Needles & Hooks yarn group, and workshops on Kawandi quilting, gelli plate printing, and rainbow embroidery. 

These programs welcome all skill levels and reflect the library’s commitment to providing enriching experiences that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. For the most current schedule and registration details, please visit the Jefferson County Library Events Calendar.

Finding connection through community

Arnold, Missouri, also offers a vibrant array of civic and social engagement opportunities for older adults, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.

• Civic engagement

  Older residents can actively participate in shaping the city’s future by serving on various boards and commissions. Notably, the Commission on Aging & Disabilities focuses on promoting full community participation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The Beautification Commission works to enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal through coordinated programs and projects.

• Volunteer opportunities

  Volunteer opportunities abound through organizations like Aging Ahead, which hosts gatherings at Jefferson College Arnold, providing socialization and meals for adults aged 60 and over. Community service clubs such as the Meramec (Arnold) Elks Lodge No. 2372 offer avenues for residents to engage in philanthropic activities and community service.

• Social activities and wellness programs

  Arnold’s commitment to active living is reflected in the variety of programs it offers to older residents. SilverSneakers® fitness classes at the Arnold Recreation Center help participants maintain strength, flexibility, and balance in a welcoming, age-inclusive environment. As a bonus, it’s free for participants age 65+ through select Medicare plans.

  The Arnold Senior Expo brings people together each year for a day of connection, health screenings, and access to senior-focused resources, making it both a social gathering and an informative event. Meanwhile, the Rickman Auditorium serves as a cultural hub, hosting concerts and performances that enrich community life.

By fostering inclusive social opportunities, senior living in Arnold, MO, ensures that every resident has the chance to learn, share, and stay meaningfully connected at every stage of life.

Quick start guide for older adults in Arnold

Whether you’re new to the community or entering a new chapter of life, Arnold offers a strong support network for older adults. From health and housing to enrichment and recreation, there are resources designed to help you stay independent, active, and connected.

Here’s a quick guide to where you can turn for information, programs, and support:

• Arnold Commission on Aging and Disabilities
  City Hall, 2101 Jeffco Blvd

  A city-led advisory group advocating for policies and programs that promote lifelong livability. They also provide a list of agencies in the St. Louis region that can offer help and direction to aging or disabled citizens.

• Aging Ahead – Jefferson College-Arnold Site
  1000 Viking Dr

  Offers congregate meals, educational workshops, wellness programs, and social activities. Great for meeting others and accessing services in one place.

• City of Arnold Parks and Recreation
  Manages fitness programs, walking clubs, game days, and seasonal events like the Senior Expo. Also oversees the Arnold Recreation Center and local parks.

• Disability Resource Association (DRA)
  130 Brandon Wallace Way, Festus, MO

  An organization offering home modification support, transportation assistance, and disability-related services for adults aging in place in Jefferson County, Metro St. Louis, and surrounding counties.

• Jefferson County Library – Arnold Branch
  1701 Missouri State Rd

  Provides book clubs, crafting groups, computer classes, and intergenerational events. It’s also a hub for lifelong learning and community connection.

• Missouri SHIP
  Formerly called CLAIM, this health insurance assistance program offers free Medicare counseling for residents navigating coverage, enrollment, or plan selection.

Whether you’re looking for programs to join, services to explore, or just want to stay informed, these organizations make it easy to find your footing and feel right at home in Arnold.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SUNSET YEARS IN ARNOLD, MO

Arnold has earned recognition as Missouri’s first official AARP Age-Friendly Community by building an environment that supports residents through every stage of life. From accessible homes and walkable streets to health programs and social events, this is a city that puts people first.

If you’re considering senior living in Arnold, MO, you’re not just looking for a place to live—you’re choosing a community designed with care. The Wallner Team is one of the top-producing teams at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties, and we believe your next chapter should be connected, comfortable, and full of opportunity.

Whether you’re planning in advance or ready to make a move, we’re here to help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and supports the way you want to live. Reach out to me, Rodney Wallner, at 314.810.7652 or send us a message here.