The World Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Cities and Communities network has accepted Brookline as its first New England member, joining eight other cities in the country and more than 100 around the world. The communities in the network are committed to creating urban environments that benefit their aging populations, according to the World Health Organization. The town was accepted after developing a plan to encourage community involvement by people of all ages, according to an announcement by the nonprofit Brookline Community Aging Network . Its plan emphasizes the expansion of more effective communication to residents about local resources and opportunities. The initiative also will examine the need for safety improvements to sidewalks and street crossings, stronger specialized transportation for those who don’t drive, senior-friendly housing, and the elimination of barriers in public buildings for elders with low vision. The local network group collaborated with selectmen and the town’s Council on Aging on the action plan.