The Village initiative has received substantial media attention as an innovative alternative to enable older adults to age in place and remain socially connected to and engaged in their community. Aging in place is the “ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably regardless of age, income, or ability level” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2013). Using results from the first national survey of U.S. Villages (Greenfield et al., 2012), we outline the core features of this initiative, followed by a discussion of the sociopolitical and cultural contexts that likely have supported the emergence of Villages. Finally, we offer a critical analysis that raises key questions regarding the role of Villages in supporting age-friendly communities and aging in place. // (2015)
