Can global cities be 'age-friendly cities'? Urban development and ageing populations. (June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Buffel, Tine; Phillipson, Chris
• Is Part Of: Cities. Volume 55(2016)
• Page Start: 94
• Page End: 100
• Publication Date: 2016-06
• Subjects: Age-friendly -- Ageing -- Urban -- Social policy -- Inequality -- Urban regeneration; City planning -- Periodicals; Urban policy -- Periodicals; 711.4
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cities.2016.03.016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-2751

Abstract

Abstract: Understanding the relationship between population ageing and urban change has become a major issue for public policy. An emerging theme has concerned the need to develop supportive urban communities for older citizens. This paper provides a critical perspective on what has been termed the development of 'age-friendly cities and communities' by exploring such policies in the context of urban change arising from globalisation, urban regeneration and austerity. A key argument is that research and policies on age-friendly cities require stronger integration with analyses of the impact of global forces transforming the physical and social context of cities. This theme is developed by examining: first, the arguments behind the development of the 'age-friendly' approach; second, the pressures affecting urban environments, and their relevance for the 'age-friendly' debate; and third, challenges for improving the urban environment for older populations. The article concludes by discussing the need to combine a conceptual model of 'age-friendliness' with analysis of the economic and social forces transforming urban environments. Highlights: Research on age-friendly cities should be integrated with research on changes affecting urban environments Economic austerity has restricted the development of age-friendly programmes Urban regeneration and gentrification create problems for older people 'ageing in place' Challenge of creating urban environments that support the rights of older people for an equal 'share' of urban space Developing cities for all ages should be a key goal for economic and social policy