Urban Support Systems Essential for Aging in Place, Study Finds

As the world observes the upcoming International Day for Older Persons, new research from The University of Manchester emphasizes the urgent need for cities to enhance their support for older residents aiming to live independently within their communities. The study, published in the European Journal of Aging, investigates the concept of "aging in place," which promotes enabling older adults to stay in their own homes and neighborhoods for as long as they choose.

The researchers highlight that although aging in place is generally regarded as a positive approach, many urban areas fail to provide adequate support structures, especially in neighborhoods facing economic decline. Rising inequality, reductions in public services, and privatization of urban spaces have left many seniors isolated and with limited access to essential facilities such as libraries, community centers, and affordable housing — resources vital for maintaining wellbeing in later life.

Lead author Dr. Tine Buffel underscores that most older individuals prefer to remain in their homes, but this is only feasible within supportive communities. Currently, many older residents experience social isolation or feel overlooked within their neighborhoods. To address this, the study advocates for innovative community models that foster mutual support, shared resources, and active engagement of older residents.

The study explores several successful international models, including:

• Village models where community members organize services like transportation and home repairs.
• Naturally occurring retirement communities characterized by existing clusters of older adults, supported by tailored services.
• Cohousing communities that promote shared living arrangements.
• Grassroots networks called compassionate communities, offering support during illness or bereavement.

While these models offer benefits such as reducing hospital visits and strengthening social ties, they face challenges like funding limitations and exclusion of more marginalized groups. The researchers suggest that aging in place should become a collective effort involving urban planning, local councils, charities, and older residents themselves. This approach requires urban environments to shift away from ageist paradigms and prioritize inclusive regeneration projects.

The study concludes that fostering collaborative organizations and community involvement is essential for enabling older adults to live independently and comfortably. Cities must recognize older people as active citizens capable of shaping urban futures, not as burdens. When communities work together to create age-friendly environments, they promote healthier, more connected aging populations.

For more details, the study titled "Aging in Place in Urban Environments: Building Collaborative Organizations for Later Life" by Tine Buffel et al. is available in the European Journal of Aging.

Source: [https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-cities-older-residents.html]