Addressing Thermal Comfort and Loneliness in Aging Societies: An Interdisciplinary Educational Research Approach

The challenges posed by aging populations and increasing rates of social isolation necessitate a rethinking of the manner in which housing and urban environments can support elderly well-being. This study explores the role of interdisciplinary educational research in addressing two key challenges faced by older adults living alone: thermal comfort and loneliness. The research, which was conducted in the Basque Country, Spain, involved six Final Degree Projects (FDPs) developed within a Research-Based Learning (RBL) framework by undergraduate students in architecture and engineering. These projects were embedded in two applied research initiatives, Etxelagun and Kalelagun, which monitored private dwellings and public spaces to evaluate environmental comfort and social inclusion. The student teams conducted fieldwork, interviews, environmental audits, and co-design processes with elderly participants and stakeholders from public administration, social services, and health sectors. The results demonstrate how the physical and social characteristics of the built environment influence autonomy, thermal comfort, and opportunities for interaction. The proposals developed address accessibility, climate-adaptive design, and age-friendly urban strategies. Survey results demonstrate that the RBL approach enhances students’ sensitivity and commitment to social challenges. The study concludes that interdisciplinary, context-sensitive educational research can produce actionable design solutions while cultivating future professionals equipped to respond to the complex needs of aging societies.