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Colombia has the potential to become a model for how societies can thrive when people of all ages are included.
A new study by HelpAge International shows that creating age-friendly cities and communities can not only improve the lives of older people by reducing their experiences of ageism, but strengthen wellbeing, social cohesion, and equality for everyone.
For the first time in Latin America, a study has used the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Ageism Scale to explore how ageism and urban design affect older people’s health and wellbeing. Conducted in partnership with five universities in Colombia and the UK (Universidad Los Libertadores in Bogotá, Universidad del Tolima in Ibagué, Universidad de Cartagena in Cartagena de Indias, Universidad Simón Bolívar in Barranquilla and University of Edinburgh) and HelpAge network member the Colombian Network for Active and Decent Ageing, the research placed older people’s voices at the heart of its findings.
Teobaldo Cavadía, survey participant and community leader of Cartagena's Older People’s CouncilThis is the first time that we have a survey that truly includes the voices and thoughts of older people. We are the ones who need to speak up, and no one should speak for us. We have the right to give our opinion and to participate in all the matters that affect us, directly or indirectly.
Older Colombians shared how urban environments can either hold them back or help them flourish. When public spaces are accessible, transport is reliable, and information is easy to find, older people report better health, stronger social connections, and higher life satisfaction. In other words, when cities work for older people, they work better for everyone.
The study revealed how deeply ageism affects daily life. Many older Colombians said they had been turned down for jobs or volunteer opportunities because of their age, or that public systems – from housing to healthcare – failed to consider their needs. Those who reported higher levels of discrimination also experienced poorer health and greater loneliness. Institutional ageism – bias embedded in government policies and services – emerged as the most widespread form, affecting people regardless of income, health, or background. These findings underscore the urgency of designing fairer systems that recognise older people as contributors and rights-holders, not burdens.
The study revealed that cities designed with older people in mind are more inclusive, healthier, and more resilient. Accessible pavements and transport systems enable participation. Public spaces designed for interaction reduce loneliness. Policies that invite older people to co-create solutions foster belonging and mutual respect.
Where older residents felt their cities were age-friendly, they were healthier, more active, experienced less ageism and were less isolated – showing the measurable benefits of inclusion.
Intergenerational contact emerged as one of the strongest protections against ageism. Older people who regularly interacted with younger generations felt more valued and less discriminated against. Community initiatives that bring people of all ages together – through volunteering, shared projects, or cultural activities – are helping reshape how ageing is understood across Colombia.
Age-friendly cities and communities (AFCC) initiatives offer a roadmap for inclusive urban and community development. By embedding anti-ageism measures into planning and governance, cities can become catalysts for change, supporting healthy ageing and empowering people of all ages to participate fully in society.
Local examples, such as older people’s councils across Colombia, show how civic participation can transform communities. When older people are recognised as agents of change, not just recipients of care, progress accelerates.
The research also highlights where improvement is still needed, especially for those facing overlapping disadvantages such as disability or poverty. But the message is clear: change is possible and already underway. By learning from older people’s experiences, policymakers and communities can design cities that are equitable, vibrant, and compassionate.
HelpAge International calls for:
Deinedt Castellanos, President of the Colombian Network for Active and Decent AgeingWhen working with older people on matters of healthy ageing, it is key to have them recognised as subjects, not as objects of observation and research. Older people should speak up for their own opinions and that their voices should be valued in community work.
A world for all ages is within reach – one where every generation contributes, connects, and thrives. By listening to older people and redesigning cities to meet their needs, we can build communities that are fairer, healthier, and more hopeful for everyone.
We believe that every older person should be able to face their future with confidence, reach their potential and play a full part in society.
