Formulating Age-Friendly Urban Policy with a Foresight Approach: A Case Study of the Central Old Texture of Zanjan

Subject Areas :

mohammad maleki ¹ , Mohammad Taghi Heidari ^{2 *} , Mahtab Amraei ³

1 - M.A. in Urban Geography and Planning, Department of Geography, Social Sciences Faculty, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
2 - Associate Professor, Urban Geography and Planning, Department of Geography, Social Sciences Faculty, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
3 - Ph.D. Student, Urban Geography and Planning, Department of Geography, Social Sciences Faculty, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran

Received: 2024-08-01 Accepted : 2024-10-10 Published : 2025-12-10

Keywords: age-friendly city, foresight, Zanjan old texture,

Abstract :

The main aim of this study is to formulate age-friendly urban policies using a foresight approach in the central old texture of Zanjan and to evaluate future-oriented urban interventions aligned with these policies. This descriptive–analytical research employed library studies, field observations, and expert interviews. The study population included 20 purposefully selected experts. Data were analyzed using the Fishbone model and the Morphol software to examine the relationships between urban interventions and policies. The findings indicate that developing age-friendly transportation to ensure easy access to healthcare services is the top priority in urban planning. Other key elements include designing communal and individual seating areas, appropriately locating signs and signboards, and creating pedestrian paths and service spaces tailored to the needs of older adults. Furthermore, policies related to “easy and affordable access to essential facilities and supportive housing” showed the highest alignment with the future scenarios of Zanjan and should be incorporated into forthcoming transportation and urban housing plans.

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