Social Participation of Marginalized Older Adults: Influence of Urban Context and Social Environment

TL;DR

This study explores how urban revitalization affects the social participation of older adults at risk of marginalization and suggests ways to include them in community activities.

Contribution

The study introduces a participatory action research approach to foster social inclusion through tailored activities for marginalized older adults in revitalizing urban areas.

Findings

Guided library tours and coffee meetings helped older adults access services and rebuild social connections.

Artistic workshops increased social participation and allowed museums to connect with underserved populations.

Tailored actions are essential to foster community belonging and reduce social exclusion during urban revitalization.

Abstract

To optimally promote health, it is essential to better consider the heterogeneity of older adults, especially in a context of a revitalization that can lead to various forms of gentrification and exacerbate the social exclusion of those at risk of marginalization. Using a participatory action research design, this study aimed to describe and explore the influence of three actions to foster the social participation of 20 older adults at risk of marginalization in a revitalizing urban city center. Guided tours of the local library were organized to share information about services and activities aimed at seniors and to help the library develop its tour offerings. Co-designed by, for, and with residents, 5 coffee meetings were held to provide older women living in a downtown low-income housing building with an opportunity to gather, access information, rebuild connections, and engage socially. Finally, in collaboration with the local fine arts museum, 4 artistic mediation workshops were implemented in the same building to increase participants’ social participation through various artistic techniques and to enable the museum to establish initial contact with a population that rarely attends its activities. The effects of these actions were explored through questionnaires and focus groups with older adults and stakeholders. The results highlight the importance of considering social dimensions during revitalization. Beyond physical improvements, it is crucial to integrate accessible and sustainable actions tailored to the abilities and needs of older adults at risk of marginalization, fostering a sense of community belonging and social participation.