Chapter 1 defines the meaning of ageing societies in the context of sustainable urban development to establish the framework for the subsequent chapters. It includes an assessment of ageing trends, such as general demographic change on a global scale, by country and by region, and a particular focus on the ageing trends of OECD metropolitan areas in terms of speed, stage and magnitude of change, and the spatial variation in ageing across urban areas.

This chapter discusses how population ageing influences sustainable urban development. It explores its economic and social implications in major policy areas and discusses the challenges and opportunities population ageing presents in the urban context. Finally, the chapter provides a preliminary framework for cities to assess these challenges and opportunities, by applying a typology of cities according to different ageing stages.

This chapter sets out strategies for addressing the challenges and opportunities of ageing societies and assesses current policy practices within the OECD. It describes major policy instruments based on an OECD country survey and case studies, and draws upon the recent literature. This chapter suggests six main policy strategies: 1) developing a long-term vision; 2) developing indicators to measure how effectively policies are working; 3) promoting health for all ages; 4) increasing older people’s engagement in the labour market and in social activities; 5) providing affordable housing in accessible environments; 6) redesigning urban areas to increase attractiveness and well-being.

Legitimate and effective governance arrangements are increasingly seen as a decisive element for social and economic development. They are also expected to make a difference in the everyday life and well-being of people. This chapter discusses the issue of governance on urban and regional policies in ageing societies. It provides three overarching governance strategies that policy makers may consider: 1) incorporate new actors for concerted action; 2) ensure policy synergies between levels of government; 3) create horizontal governance arrangements to overcome policy “silos”. Each section provides a concise analytical assessment complemented by hands-on policy examples from OECD member countries.