The methodology of identifying active aging places in the city - Practical application

Local governments are facing a considerable challenge to accurately identify existing active aging places in order to be able to pursue a sustainable pro-elderly policy. The aim of this policy is to plan and provide appropriate facilities for seniors in a given location. In response to these needs, a universal methodology of identification of current and future active aging places (AAP) in cities was designed and tested in Suwałki, Poland. The methodology is based on analyses of contemporary trends in the field, using state and local policy, as well as on survey data from the target population and on information provided by experts. Thematic maps of AAP in the city were developed with free QGIS software. This innovative approach to visualising AAP may provide a useful tool for public entities in creating policies for city planning, as well as for private entities to direct their own investment plans, and to implement the concept of aging-in-place in their planning. •The universal methodology of identification of current and future active aging places in cities was designed.•Field tests were carried out.•The methodology conforms to the "aging in place" paradigm and the determinants of an age-friendly city.•The visualization of the AAP was done using GIS tools.