Spatial planning interventions for winter sunbathing: Optimizing neighborhood open spaces for the elderly in Jiande, China

As global aging accelerates, addressing older adults’ winter sunbathing—a culturally and significant practice enhancing well-being—remains underexplored in spatial planning. This study identifies and optimizes neighborhood open spaces (NOS) for winter sunbathing to improve elderly quality of life and social inclusion. We developed a framework integrating sunlight exposure (≥3 h), wind conditions (≤ 2 m/s), and walkability assessments. Analyzing 5.64 km 2 of Jiande, China, we identified 495 climatically suitable NOS. Findings reveal stark spatial disparities: older neighborhoods offer better access, while newer gated developments face shortages, exacerbated by topography-driven east-west climatic divides. Over 75 % of elderly residents rely on small, fragmented spaces, with informal areas filling planning gaps. High-rise developments increase wind exposure, limiting outdoor activity and further restricting suitable NOS. The study underscores the potential of informal spaces, such as vacant lots and underutilized areas, in addressing planning deficiencies. It highlights the critical role of spatial planning interventions in promoting aging in place, equitable access, and climate-responsive urban design. The proposed framework offers a transferable approach for integrating climate-sensitive, age-friendly design into global urban planning, fostering healthier and more inclusive cities for aging populations.