Tuesday, October 13, 2026
What does it take to create communities where people can thrive at every age? That question was at the center of AgeGuide’s 2026 Aging Summit, From Front Door to Main Street: Advancing Livable Communities.
Professionals, advocates, planners, policymakers, and community leaders came together to explore how housing, transportation, social connection, and community design shape our ability to age well. Throughout the day, speakers and participants examined the partnerships, policies, and local solutions needed to build more inclusive, age-friendly communities across Illinois.
Building Communities for a Lifetime
The summit opened with a keynote from Bill Armbruster of AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, who challenged attendees to think about what makes a place truly livable. He highlighted the importance of creating communities where people can remain connected, engaged, and supported throughout every stage of life.
That message carried throughout the day as attendees explored a central theme: healthy aging is shaped not only by healthcare, but by the neighborhoods, services, and social connections that support daily life.
Age-Friendly Illinois Announcement
Participants at the summit witnessed the announcement of the launch of Age-Friendly Illinois, reinforcing a growing statewide commitment to policies and practices that help residents remain independent and engaged as they age.
Addressing Challenges Through Collaboration
A panel featuring Mary Killough, Director of the Illinois Department on Aging, alongside leaders from the Illinois Multisector Plan for Aging and the Illinois Office to Prevent and End Homelessness, emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing the needs of older adults.
The discussion explored how housing, health, transportation, and community services intersect and how coordinated efforts across sectors can improve quality of life for older Illinois residents.
Attendees also viewed a scene from “No Place to Grow Old”, a documentary examining the growing challenge of older adult homelessness. The session highlighted the growing crisis of older adults facing housing instability and how communities can work together to expand supports and develop long-term solutions.
Turning Ideas into Action
Throughout the afternoon, speakers and participants focused on practical approaches to creating communities where people can remain connected and engaged as they age.
Speakers including, Lore Baker, Association for Individual Development; Neil James, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus; and Nicole Murray, Will-Grundy Habitat for Humanity shared examples of how accessible housing, thoughtful planning, and strong neighborhood connections can help residents age in place successfully.
Attendees then participated in facilitated discussions designed to move ideas into action. Through collaborative problem-solving and an interactive group activity, participants exchanged perspectives, identified challenges, and explored innovative strategies for building more livable communities.
Looking Ahead
The summit concluded with a lively panel discussion featuring Bill Armbruster, Mary Killough, Neil James, and AgeGuide CEO Marla Fronczak. Reflecting on themes from throughout the day, panelists emphasized that creating livable communities requires sustained collaboration, local leadership, and a shared vision for the future.
The 2026 Aging Summit reinforced a simple but powerful message: communities do not become age-friendly by accident. They are built intentionally through partnerships, planning, and investments.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Speakers
AgeGuide extends its gratitude to the presenters, partners, volunteers, and attendees who helped make this year’s summit a success.
A special thank you goes to our sponsors:
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Together, we are advancing communities where people of all ages can thrive today and for generations to come.
