Project | Diverse older populations, voice and planning age-friendly environments |
Host: | University of Applied science and Art Northwestern Switzerland |
Main Supervisor: | Prof. Matthias Drilling / Prof. Kieran Walsh |
Co-Supervisors: | Dr. Thiago Hérick de Sá |
Project Title:
Voices of Diversity: Exploring Inclusion of Older Adults in Ageing in Place Policy Development and Urban Planning
Aim of Project:
This PhD research study aims to assess the prevalence and understanding of older individuals’ voices within ageing in place policy development and urban planning, and the alignment of age-friendly and related policies with the unique needs of ageing populations in cities. It seeks to provide valuable insights for enhancing the well-being of older people in urban and community settings.
Short description/abstract: This PhD research explores how age-friendly urban planning aligns with the diverse needs of older populations, focusing on the inclusivity and contextual sensitivity of the Word Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Cities programme. The study critically examines the representation and integration of older adults’ perspectives in urban planning, particularly for marginalised groups. Using a cross-national case study of Dublin and Copenhagen, the research employs interviews, document analysis, and field observations to explore stakeholder engagement, community needs, and policy design. The findings propose a more inclusive, responsive policy framework for urban ageing, contributing to equitable city design and advancing age-friendly policy innovation.
Project progress: The study is structured around four distinct work packages, each addressing a specific research objective and incorporating a dedicated strand.
Paper 1 is a scoping review of the international literature on age-friendly initiatives, focusing on how diverse older populations’ voices are represented and integrated into policies. The review currently is a working draft that addresses the gaps in intervention diversity and the authenticity of representation, aiming to contribute to a more inclusive understanding of ageing.
Paper 2 examines the impact of stakeholder perspectives on age-friendly policies, focusing on the role of policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community advocates. It uses a comparative qualitative case study approach, with interviews conducted at both the national and city levels. The data gathering for site 1 of the study (Denmark) is completed and site 2 (Ireland) is about to start.
Paper 3 investigates the needs and preferences of older populations within age-friendly city sites. Through semi-structured interviews and observations, the study aims to uncover the specific requirements of diverse groups, and how these needs are addressed by urban policies. The data gathering for site 1 of the study (Denmark) is completed and site 2 (Ireland) is about to start.
Paper 4 will synthesise findings from the previous papers and adopt a participatory approach to guide the development of an inclusive policy framework for urban planning that reflects the articulated needs of diverse older adults.
