Developing age-friendly cities: case studies from Brussels and Manchester and implications for policy and practice

J Aging Soc Policy. 2014;26(1-2):52-72. doi: 10.1080/08959420.2014.855043.

Abstract

Developing environments responsive to the aspirations of older people has become a major concern for social and public policy. Policies and programs directed at achieving "age-friendly" communities are considered to require a wide range of interventions, including actions at the level of the social and physical environment. This article compares the age-friendly approaches of two European cities, Brussels and Manchester, with a particular focus on policies and initiatives that promote active aging in an urban context. The article examines, first, the demographic, social, and multicultural contexts of Brussels and Manchester; second, the way in which both cities became members of the World Health Organization Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities; third, similarities and differences in the age-friendly approaches and actions adopted by both cities; and fourth, opportunities and barriers to the implementation of age-friendly policies. The article concludes by discussing the key elements and resources needed to develop age-friendly cities.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging*
  • Belgium
  • Cities*
  • City Planning* / methods
  • City Planning* / organization & administration
  • Community Networks
  • Cultural Diversity
  • England
  • Environment Design / standards*
  • Humans
  • Independent Living / standards
  • National Health Programs / organization & administration*
  • Program Evaluation
  • Public Policy
  • Residence Characteristics / classification
  • Residence Characteristics / statistics & numerical data
  • Social Environment
  • Social Planning*
  • Urban Population
  • World Health Organization