Boston can be a favorable city for older adults to live in, but the suitability can vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:
Website
Age Friendly BostonContacts
Emily Shea, Commissioner on Elder
One Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 20108
617-635-4366
reviews (656)
Brighton is good and I think the people who live here enjoy it. It's one of the safest places in the Boston area, and people are friendly and helpful. We got good public transportation with the T stops of Washington street or over in Allston if you live closer to there. I still drive most places and at least around here it is easier than most parts of Boston-less traffic, less crowded. There's a senior center where people can take classes, and also gives people volunteer opportunities I think. Definitely takes care of the people here.
I would say the biggest thing about Dorchester older people would be concerned with is the safety. I've been here my whole life so I am used to it so I know which areas to avoid. It's been getting safer recently definitely and that is probably what they should focus on to keep improving the neighborhood. There's a bunch of new shops opening which is good for me too. Healthcare is easy to get to in Boston if you need it. Transportation is good with trains and buses.
The most important things for me as I grow older are being near family, access to quality healthcare, and good public transportation since I don't drive anymore. Dorchester offers those things for me so I would say it is age friendly.
Cambridge is great. I have lived in Cambridge for almost forty years. I think it is one of the safest communities around here. The hospitals in Boston are great. There is a Senior center that has plenty of activities Seniors.
I would say Cambridge is very friendly to the elderly. We have good public transportation, a lot of culture, easy access to hospitals, and plenty of things to do for someone my age. The cost of living here is definitely increasing though. If I were to make one suggestion, there used to be a place here to help Seniors learn how to use computers, and I would like to see that brought back.
I would reccomend Cambridge for someone who is older or choosing to retire. There are good options for food and things for someone of older age to do, especially in Harvard Square. There is a lot of culture, like the art museum, and the library here is really good. I do not use public transportation often, but someone can take the bus as well as the train around Cambridge or into Boston.
I think Cambridge is really good for older people in general. There are senior living options and plenty of things to do for someone my age. I have lived here for a long time and it is clear to me that the local Government here cares about the wellbeing of the elderly.
Outstanding Public Transit Systems
major concern is cost of living and employment for women who need to work in retirement
For healthcare we got St. Elizabeth's right near here, then also getting to Mass General is no problem. People here always feel safe which is very important. I've been living here about 60 years and I haven't had any problems getting access to the care I needed, and haven't dealt with any crimes. I like it because people of very friendly, it's not too crowded. There's a lot of good food and grocery stores that I like and it's not too expensive to live here.