The right to the city: mobility of proximity and social inclusion of elderly people

That to the city is a fundamental right that emphasises the importance of people’s access to the opportunities of urban life, including essential services and cultural activities. This contribution argues that mobility of proximity and walkability are essential components of spatial justice, with particular attention to enhancing elderly people’s quality of life. Different strategies to develop more walkable urban environments will be identified through the construction of design scenarios. Facing the challenges that elderly people encounter in walking throughout the city is crucial when urban infrastructural elements are taken into consideration, while solutions acting at a softer level (social and participatory activities), to be effective, should promote walkability for all members of society, regardless of their age or other specific conditions.