A transdisciplinary assessment of age-friendly cities and communities in Bengaluru Urban, India: Towards a healthy aging framework

BACKGROUND: With the global increase in the elderly demographics, significant challenges are presented for urban environments. The escalation of urbanization and migration trends engenders a heightened demand for cities that are conducive to the needs of older adults. India, with 10.5% of its population aged 60 years and above (National Statistical Office, 2023), faces an urgent imperative to develop age-friendly urban environments. Cities like Bengaluru exemplify both opportunities and challenges in achieving this. As a result, Bengaluru's elderly population is growing, but the city lacks infrastructure to meet their needs. This study assesses the city's age-friendliness in several important areas, matching WHO standards with the Indian setting to offer workable urban solutions. METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A cross-sectional study was conducted across 27 geographic locations comprising 214 discrete public amenities in Bengaluru, using the WHO's "Checklist of Essential Features of AFCC." Data were analyzed across eight domains. Locations were scored across all these domains and categorized based on cumulative scores as not age-friendly, moderately age-friendly, and age-friendly. RESULTS: Among the 27 locations assessed, it was noted that 19 (70.4%) of public areas were clean, 23 (85.2%) of them lacked wheelchair-accessible pavements, and 26 (96.3%) had no safe pedestrian crossings. Well-connected transportation was available in 17 (63%) locations, but only 1 (3.7%) had specialized transport for disabled individuals. Among 25 locations deemed suitable, 20 (80%) were suitable, with only 3 (12%) suitable for the disabled. Overall, 2 (7.4%) locations were completely age-friendly, 2 (7.4%) locations were moderately age-friendly, while the remaining majority, 23 (85.2%) locations, were not age-friendly. CONCLUSION: This study showcases the varying landscape of urban amenities for the aging population. The results depict deficiencies in accessibility, health care services, and housing. The conceptual framework proposed through this study encompasses key elements promulgated in the UN Healthy Aging Agenda: 2020-2030. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: This study provides actionable insights for policymakers and urban planners to improve age-friendly urban spaces. By combining inclusive transportation, technology-driven healthcare solutions, and accessible public areas, the proposed framework addresses the social and infrastructural gap. Aligning the city planning with the global frameworks for Age-friendly Cities and Communities (AFCC) standards will ensure that older people live independently, fairly, and with dignity.