Evaluation of indicators of aging-friendly urban indicators in 8 districts of Ahwaz metropolitan, southwest Iran

This study evaluated aging-friendly urban indicators in southwestern Iran during the second half of 2023. A descriptive-analytical approach was employed, surveying 894 older adults through stratified random sampling. Spatial patterns were analyzed using GIS, and statistical analysis was performed with SPSS (v28). Spatial autocorrelation and cluster patterns were observed across all eight districts in key aging-friendly city components, including urban open spaces, transportation systems, public/religious buildings, traffic safety, social participation, social respect, culture-recreation, and healthcare accessibility. Findings indicate significant gaps in aging-friendly infrastructure in Ahvaz Metropolitan, highlighting the need for targeted urban policies and planning interventions to improve livability for older adults. Targeted interventions, such as improving transportation safety and healthcare access, are recommended to address these gaps.