Brookline's first community needs assessment of residents aged 60 and older was presented publicly for the first time at Town Hall on Monday, Aug. 31.

Researchers from the UMass Boston Gerontology Institute shared key findings and recommendations from the study with the Select Board. The meeting agenda listed the presentation as a standalone item, and the session was streamed live on Brookline Interactive Group.

The assessment grew out of a partnership between the Brookline Council on Aging and UMass Boston, launched in early 2026 to study the experiences, interests and long-term needs of the town's growing older adult population. More than 13,000 Brookline residents are 60 or older.

The Council on Aging collected input through interviews, focus groups and a town-wide survey. The survey was available online and in print at the Brookline Senior Center, Town Hall and all Public Library of Brookline branches through March 31. The Council on Aging said in a February newsletter that the survey would help the town advocate for future funding for senior services.

Dr. Caitlin Coyle at UMass Boston served as the survey contact. The Council on Aging said in a March newsletter that results would inform planning by the Council on Aging and other town departments serving older adults.

Council on Aging Director Emily J. Williams confirmed the assessment's completion in a July newsletter. "Your voices, ideas, and perspectives are invaluable, and they will help shape the future of aging services in our community for years to come," Williams wrote.

The specific findings and recommendations presented to the Select Board have not yet been published. The full report is expected later this fall.

The Brookline Senior Center was named Nonprofit of the Year at the Charles River Regional Chamber's Brookline Night earlier in 2026.

Residents with questions about the assessment can contact Dr. Coyle at UMass Boston at 617-287-7413 or Williams at [email protected].