Possibilities of Making Seniors Active in Urban Space: The Case of Polish Cities

The sustainable development of cities should be based on a reasonable balance between promoting economic growth, taking care of the environment and meeting various needs of all residents. Contemporary cities have witnessed the growth in the number of senior citizens in the total population. Thus, seniors have become an important group which can no longer be perceived in a stereotypical manner from the point of view of cost only. It is important to ensure social justice and prevent social exclusion of seniors. Based on the literature and desk research, the article presents features which are characteristic for senior-friendly cities. It also highlights the role of public organizations, such as local governments and NGOs, in the development of senior-oriented initiatives. While considering demographic trends and their consequences for the society, these organizations are capable of initiating and promoting responsible and reasonable solutions integrating seniors and changing the previous image of a senior citizen in the society. Examples of measures integrating seniors in Polish cities presented in the article can be implemented in other cities as well.