Developing Age-Friendly Cities and Communities: Eleven Case Studies from around the World.

TitleDeveloping Age-Friendly Cities and Communities: Eleven Case Studies from around the World.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsRémillard-Boilard, S, Buffel, T, Phillipson, C
JournalInt J Environ Res Public Health
Volume18
Issue1
Date Published2020 Dec 27
ISSN1660-4601
KeywordsAged, Aged, 80 and over, Aging, Cities, City Planning, Humans, Middle Aged, Quality of Life, World Health Organization
Abstract

Developing age-friendly cities and communities has become a key part of policies aimed at improving the quality of life of older people in urban areas. The World Health Organization has been especially important in driving the 'age-friendly' agenda, notably through its Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, connecting 1114 (2020 figure) cities and communities worldwide. Despite the expansion and achievements of the Network over the last decade, little is known about the progress made by cities developing this work around the world. This article addresses this research gap by comparing the experience of eleven cities located in eleven countries. Using a multiple case study approach, the study explores the key goals, achievements, and challenges faced by local age-friendly programs and identifies four priorities the age-friendly movement should consider to further its development: (1) changing the perception of older age; (2) involving key actors in age-friendly efforts; (3) responding to the (diverse) needs of older people; and (4) improving the planning and delivery of age-friendly programs. The article concludes by discussing the research and policy implications of these findings for the age-friendly movement.

DOI10.3390/ijerph18010133
Alternate JournalInt J Environ Res Public Health
PubMed ID33375466
PubMed Central IDPMC7795502