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Description
In Turkiye, cities typically pursue growth-oriented visions spurred by economic expansion and a focus on construction. Conversely, smaller cities facing difficulties in meeting these criteria experience setbacks like population decline and a decrease in quality of life stemming from economic contraction (Arslan et. al, 2016). To address these challenges, adopting new planning concepts creates opportunities to reshape urban possibilities by taking into account the morphological and environmental traits of cities, demographic compositions, and the quality of life for residents, particularly older adults who chose to stay in these shrinking small cities.
This research centres on the inclusiveness of older adults in a small-scale city, focusing on the Age-Friendly Cities conceptual framework developed and elaborated by the WHO (2007, 2018, 2023). It targets the creation of urban areas that priorities safety, accessibility, and support for older adults. This includes features such as walkable neighborhoods, public safety, accessible transportation, affordable housing, and avenues for social engagement.
Based on these concepts, this study aims to discuss the possibilities of inclusive and age-friendly city implementation and policies in the small-sized city of Saray, Tekirdağ in the Thrace region of Turkey. Saray is a compact city characterized by flat terrain, where population and services are primarily concentrated in its city center, reflecting a shift from its traditionally rural settlement pattern to apartment complexes.
Basic urban services such as education and health need to be improved according to the requirements of the Turkish Planning legislation, while primary schools are widespread close to the 15 Minute City accessibility parameters and cultural-educational activities organized by the Municipality for youth and children show the awareness of the local government towards young citizens. Primary health care services are few and not widespread. The Cultural Center, located at a highly accessible point in the city center, has an active program that mostly targets children and youth.
According to 2023 population data (TÜİK, 2023), 51,224 people live in Saray of which 28,071 reside in the city center. While the rate of increase in Turkey is 21% compared to 2013, the 65% increase in the elderly population in Saray is quite remarkable. While having a rapidly growing elderly population, it also provides labor for the intensive industrial production in Çerkezköy, Çorlu, and Kapaklı in its region. Therefore, it is important to search for and discuss age-friendly and inclusive city planning steps for Saray that aim to create a more livable environment for all.
This paper examines the results of a field study and questionnaire conducted in Saray, a first for Turkey, and evaluates Saray’s capacity for, age-friendly city. The findings reveal a lack of a clear vision for an age-friendly city within Saray’s urban policy. Current planning documents and practices do not contain specific initiatives aimed at older adults. Nonetheless, the city’s flat terrain and compact layout enhance accessibility for older citizens. Although there is no dedicated policy to encourage their involvement in governance, the municipality’s focus on people-centered policies is received positively. Social engagement among older adults largely occurs within the family setting.
References
Arslan, T., Durak, S., & Aytac, D. (2016). Attaining sdg11: can sustainability assessment tools be used for improved transformation of neighbourhoods in historic city centers?. Natural Resources Forum, 40(4), 180-202. https://doi.org/10.1111/1477-8947.12115
TÜİK, (2023). İstatistiklerle Yaşlılar. Accessed: 01.01.2025: URL
World Health Organization. (2007). Global Age-friendly Cities: A Guide.
World Health Organization. (2018). Age-friendly environments in Europe: Indicators, monitoring and assessments.
World Health Organization. (2023). National programmes for age-friendly cities and communities A guide.
| Keywords | age-friendly cities; inclusive cities; 15-minutes cities |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | No |
