Promoting healthy aging in cities

Abstract

Introduction: At a time of unpredictable challenges for health, whether from a changing climate, emerging infectious diseases, or the next microbe that develops drug resistance, one trend is certain: the ageing of populations is rapidly accelerating worldwide. For the first time in history, most people can expect to live into their 60s and beyond. The consequences for health, health systems, their workforce and  budgets are profound. A healthy city is one that is continually creating and improving those physical and social environments and expanding those community resources which enable people to mutually support each other in performing all the functions of life and developing to their maximum potential. Aim: This presentation focuses on the city as a setting for health promotion and on the role of healthy city projects in  promoting healthy aging. Methodology: The main approach of this study is to   provide a review of previous research about successful and healthy ageing that have been utilized by many countries in their policy responses towards the demographic changes brought about by ageing. Results: These will be illustrated in this paper through case studies. Conclusion: In the context of the healthy city programs,   various activities to promote the health of older citizens have been carried out.