Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Analytical and Multi-Criteria Approaches for Sustainable Public Policies, Hakan Gökhan Gündoğdu,Çağlar Karamaşa, Editör, Sakarya University Press, Sakarya, ss.164-190, 2026
As of 2024, people aged 65 and older constitute 10.6% of Türkiye’s population, yet urban accessibility for this group remains underexplored. To our knowledge, this is the first study in Türkiye to systematically examine urban accessibility among the older population using nationally representative data, and the first to analyse the link between accessibility and well-being among adults aged 50 and over. Drawing on the 2023 Türkiye Ageing Profile Survey (N = 26,767), we examine (1) the extent to which local environments support independent living, (2) region-specific needs regarding public spaces, pedestrian infrastructure, and transport, and (3) the relationship between accessibility and psychological well-being among adults aged 50 and over. Descriptive findings reveal strong regional inequalities. Western and more urbanized regions offer relatively age-friendly infrastructure—though significant limitations remain—while eastern areas face severe barriers. Key obstacles include limited green areas, insufficient seating and toilets, safety concerns, and environmental problems. Pedestrian challenges, such as short traffic light durations and poor visibility of traffic signs, are widespread. These disparities contradict the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities, underscoring the need for targeted policy action. Multiple linear regression shows that environmental and mobility factors significantly influence older adults’ well-being. Perceived health is the strongest predictor of lower depressive symptoms, but the ability to go outside unassisted and feeling safe when walking alone also serve as protective factors. Difficulties in accessing healthcare and pedestrian facilities, as well as living alone, increase depression risk. Given the heterogeneity of Türkiye’s older population, future surveys should include multiple languages and adopt longitudinal designs to capture long-term effects. Moreover, engaging older individuals in neighbourhood initiatives and participatory planning can strengthen urban governance and ensure more inclusive, age-friendly cities. Future research should investigate urban–rural disparities in accessibility among older adults.