Age-Friendly City Indicators and General Health Among Older Adults

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Population aging is an inevitable demographic trend, and preparing for aging societies is part of sustainable social and economic development. Many older adults experience social exclusion due to individual and societal factors, diminishing their sense of dignity, social value, and belonging. Therefore, evidence-based policies and interventions that enhance quality of life, preserve functional independence, and promote social participation should be prioritized in health policy and planning.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among older adults attending five elderly centers in Tehran, Iran. A total of 713 participants was selected based on the Morgan sample size table. Data were collected using the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the World Health Organization (WHO) Age-friendly Cities Questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22 (P < 0.05).

Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in general health across the study regions. General health was not significantly associated with the domains of social respect and inclusion or community and health services. However, significant associations were found between general health and social participation, interpersonal relationships, and cultural and recreational services (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Several age-friendly city indicators remained below recommended standards. None of the four evaluated domains provided optimal conditions for older adults, highlighting the need for targeted policies and interventions to improve age-friendliness, strengthen social participation, and support healthy aging. These findings may inform policies to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older adults.