Ageing in Munich
A study shows what the people in Munich would like in old age.
Basis
How does the “baby boomer” generation see life in old age? What are the characteristics of ageing in a rapidly growing city for the 55 to 75-year-old age group? What needs are associated with this in terms of the urban area, living, care and social environment? The project investigated the many facets of ageing in Munich, one of Germany's largest cities. Specific recommended actions for designing the living environments of future generations of elderly people were developed, with consideration also being given to other communities.
Project
The study involved a variety of methods. A standard written survey of 10,000 people aged between 55 and 75 was combined with qualitative methods, such as inspections of the city's neighbourhoods, interviews with experts, photo elicitation interviews and focus groups, including people in particular circumstances. As well as the people who are currently aged between 55 and 64, those who are currently aged between 65 and 74 were also included, to work out how requirements for the current generation of elderly people differ from those of a future generation. Reference was also made to other research findings and statistical data from Germany and other European countries.
The following features are specific to this study:
- an interdisciplinary concept, linking integrated urban development planning and ecogerontological issues,
- a socio-spatial approach, focusing on ten urban neighbourhoods in five different types of neighbourhood,
- a multimethod design with simultaneously activating elements,
- a centring on the ideas and perspectives of “young elderly people”, prior to or during their transition from employment into retirement, linked with
- prospective questions: how can we prepare ourselves today to enable this resource-rich group to age differently and for their ageing to be shaped differently from that of previous generations?
Interdisciplinary project team
Careum Research: Prof. Dr. Ulich Otto (Lead)
Institut Weeber+Partner, Stuttgart: Gabriele Steffen, Philip Klein, Lisa Abele (Lead)
In close coordination with the provincial capital of Munich and the Supreme Building Authority of Bavaria
External funding
Provincial capital of Munich and Supreme Building Authority of Bavaria
Duration
2013–2015
Final report
Final report and further information about the project
Media
Loerzer, Sven (10. Mai 2015). Zwicken und Zwacken. München für ältere Menschen. Süddeutsche Zeitung. Volltext
