Growing Older Together: Why an Age-Friendly Lancaster Benefits Everyone

When people hear the phrase age-friendly city, they often assume it’s a concept designed exclusively for older adults. But according to Landis Place on King resident Ellen Berfond, nothing could be further from the truth.

“What’s good for a wheelchair is good for a stroller,” Ellen says, repeating a phrase that perfectly captures the heart of Age-Friendly Lancaster: the friendliness of accessibility for people of ALL ages. Better sidewalks, safer street crossings, improved traffic flow, accessible information, and welcoming public spaces aren’t just improvements for seniors—they make life easier for parents pushing strollers, cyclists, people with disabilities, and everyone who calls Lancaster home.

Ellen, 74, has been involved with Lancaster Downtowners since 2016 and currently serves as its vice president. Through that organization, she became engaged with Age-Friendly Lancaster, an initiative that Landis Communities, along with City of Lancaster and the Downtowners, launched in Lancaster City to ensure residents of every age can live, work, and thrive in the community.

For Ellen, the mission is deeply personal. She and her husband, Andy, moved to Landis Place on King nearly three years ago after searching for a home that would allow them to remain active in the heart of downtown. Today, they enjoy panoramic city views from their fifth-floor apartment while remaining within walking distance of restaurants, theaters, shops, and the vibrant life of Lancaster.

But creating an age-friendly city goes beyond convenient housing.

“It’s about everyone having the ability to live independently and stay involved in the community,” Ellen explains.

That means improving accessibility, expanding communication so residents without computers or transportation can still access important information, and making thoughtful investments that help people remain connected throughout every stage of life.

One area Ellen hopes to see continue growing is intergenerational relationships. While she treasures the close-knit community at Landis Place on King, she believes Lancaster’s greatest strength is its diversity.

“My dream is to see more organic opportunities for intergenerational activities and communication,” she says. “Because we’re in such a vibrant city with people of all ages.”

Looking ahead, Ellen is encouraged that Age-Friendly Lancaster isn’t simply a one-time project. Instead, it’s an ongoing commitment to continual improvement—making Lancaster a city where people don’t just grow older, but continue living fully, independently, and alongside neighbors of every generation.

At Landis Place on King, that vision is already becoming reality. Residents enjoy the freedom of downtown living while remaining connected to a community that values independence, engagement, and meaningful relationships. As Lancaster continues investing in an age-friendly future, everyone stands to benefit—because a city that’s easier to navigate, safer to explore, and more welcoming for older adults is ultimately a better city for us all.