Caitlin Coyle, PhD ‘14, is featured among a handful of fellow leaders in aging in a new podcast, ReiMAgine Aging, produced by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs in partnership with Point32Health Foundation and the Massachusetts Healthy Aging Collaborative.

Coyle, who directs the Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging at UMass Boston, also co-founded and co-chairs the Taskforce to End Loneliness & Build Community, an innovative statewide coalition of organizations and community members dedicated to fostering connection. Coyle’s partner on the taskforce is Sandra Harris, president of AARP Massachusetts. Coyle also serves on the Commonwealth’s Age Friendly State designation team.

“We wanted to highlight the progress and innovations as the age- and dementia-friendly movement continues to grow in Massachusetts,” says Robin Lipson, deputy secretary of the Executive Office of Elder Affairs. “We are incredibly privileged to be able to elevate these positive aging stories.  Each story illuminates the depth and breadth of dedication to creating a more age- and dementia-friendly community, illustrating how the combination of systems change and local advocacy and action can truly move the needle to impact peoples’ lives.”

“Our administration is proud to be taking steps that make Massachusetts more welcoming and livable for residents of all ages,” says Governor Maura Healey. “This podcast shines a light on the experiences of older adults, as well as the individuals and organizations who work hard to care for them. We hope listeners are inspired by these audio stories and take action to make their own communities age- and dementia-friendly.”  

Six episodes in the podcast series focus on how communities are updating infrastructure, food accessibility, expanding affordable supportive housing, increasing transportation options, and more. Coyle’s commentary appears in the “Aging with Purpose and Meaning” segment.