Resumo:
The sociodemographic transition, with consequent population aging, is now a global
reality. This scenario, concomitant with the growing urbanization of cities, makes the
State have to adopt measures and strategies, capable to stimulate the autonomy and life
quality of the aging population. However, few studies have analyzed the mode how the
cities are planned in view of the growing number of elderly people. Thus, the main
objective of this study was to verify, through a systematic review of the literature, how
urban planning in cities takes place in the face of population aging, and if the cities are
prepared for the aging of their inhabitants, allowing and encouraging aging in place.
The review was guided by the recommendations outlined in the Cochrane Center for
Evaluation Dissemination and Collaboration guidelines. The keywords followed the
description of the main terms in English for: “Aging in place”, and “Walkability”,
where 57 studies were selected. The necessary results are the need for an environment
that encourages social relationships in old age, maintains autonomy, and develops a
sense of belonging, in addition to demonstrating that in general, cities are not prepared
to old age. Furthermore, issues that encourage leisure-time physical activity, whether
environmental or social, are determinant for better physical and mental health
conditions, favoring the life quality. In general, research reveals that urban planning,
when guided in order to promote aging in the place, can act as an instrument to maintain
autonomy, quality of life, favoring better social and health conditions.
