The concept of "aging in place" in sociology and the possibilities for its implementation in modern cities

The article is devoted to the analysis of the concept of "ageing in place" as a potential strategy for adapting the urban environment to the demographic shifts of the current century. The relevance of the study is determined by the need to find effective models of social policy in the context of an ageing population, which, on one hand, will reduce the burden on the healthcare system and social protection organizations, and on the other hand, will enhance the quality of life for the elderly. The purpose of the article is to systematize theoretical approaches to the study of the "ageing in place" concept and identify the main prospects for its implementation in modern cities. The research is based on an analysis of contemporary domestic and foreign publications that present the theoretical framework for studying the implementation of the "ageing in place" concept. The article relies on a combination of general scientific and specific sociological methods, including comparative and genetic methods, typology methods, and others. Key theoretical approaches include the concept of the digital divide and studies on science and technology. The concept of the digital divide discusses issues related to the digitalization of ageing in place, raising questions about the digital literacy of older adults and their motivation to use new technologies. Research on science and technology focuses on issues of freedom, privacy, and security in the context of the widespread adoption of digital technologies. Throughout the study, the main research directions in the field of ageing in place were identified: living environment; technologies, including digital ones; social networks and interpersonal relationships; support from the social environment (formal and informal); personal qualities of older adults and their preferences. In conclusion, the article states that adapting cities to an aging population is not only a challenge but also an opportunity to transform modern urban areas into spaces with a more comfortable environment for all generations.