Ageing together: a policy case study analysis of socio-spatial inequities for older adults

Toronto’s elderly population is growing rapidly, with people over 65 currently outnumbering those under 15. Despite global Age-Friendly Cities movements, city-building processes often neglect older adults’ needs, focusing instead on the working-age population. Although Toronto implemented senior strategies for well-being, barriers to creating an inclusive city remain. This paper analyzes housing and land use policies within the City’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law and assesses how these policy provisions are applied in two neighbourhood case studies. It reveals inequities and allocation restrictions on housing, services and amenities that impact older adults’ ability to age-in-community and identifies opportunities for change.