Framework for a participatory co-design approach of urban spaces with older adults

Purpose This research aims to systematically analyze participatory co-design models, methods and tools to identify effective approaches for involving older adults in urban space design, with a focus on understanding barriers and facilitators that influence their participation. The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive Framework for Participatory Co-Design of Urban Spaces with Older Adults that integrates project management methodologies and empathy-driven approaches to ensure older adults’ active and meaningful contributions. The expected results include a structured framework that urban designers can use to create age-friendly urban spaces that enhance well-being, livability and safety for older adults, alongside actionable insights into overcoming participation barriers. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining a systematic literature review, conducted using the PRISMA guidelines, with case-based evidence analysis. A comprehensive literature search across Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Dimensions, MDPI and Google Scholar databases was performed to evaluate participatory co-design approaches, methods and tools that facilitate older adults’ active involvement in urban design. The data are synthesized to establish a Framework for Participatory Co-Design of Urban Spaces with Older Adults, emphasizing project management principles and inclusive design strategies. Findings The findings provide a detailed understanding of participatory co-design processes, methods, and tools tailored for older adults, identifying key barriers (e.g. digital divide, physical limitations) and facilitators (e.g. accessible tools, empathy-driven engagement). The proposed Framework integrates Agile and PMBOK methodologies to structure co-design processes, ensuring older adults’ needs for trust, transparency, and adaptability are met, with expected outcomes including improved urban space accessibility and social inclusion. Research limitations/implications This research focuses on studies from developed countries and requires addressing the needs of older people in various geographical, socio-economic, political, and cultural contexts. To bridge the gap between theory and practice, the Framework for Participatory Co-Design of Urban Spaces with Older Adults needs to be empirically assessed on real-world case studies. Additionally, there is a need to examine how smart technologies, such as AI and digital twins, can enhance participatory co-design and address digital inclusion for older adults. Practical implications The findings demonstrate that older adults can actively contribute to co-design when processes are tailored to their physical, cognitive, and technological capabilities. The proposed Framework for Participatory Co-Design provides urban designers with practical tools and methods to overcome participation barriers, fostering inclusive urban environments that support active aging and aging-in-place. Originality/value This paper establishes a novel Framework for Participatory Co-Design of Urban Spaces with Older Adults uniquely combining project management methodologies with empathy-driven and inclusive design approaches. It offers a scalable model for empowering older adults as co-creators, addressing gaps in existing co-design practices and providing a foundation for future empirical validation.