Accessibility of public utility facilities and public spaces considering the activity of older adults on the example of the Mokotów district in Warsaw

Abstract

The article analyzes the issue of accessibility of public utility facilities and public spaces from the perspective of an ageing society. Its purpose is the identification of strengths and barriers in the selected area of the city of Warsaw and the Mokotów district in the context of senior policy, as well as support for activity and the high quality of life for older individuals. The analysis of Mokotów was conducted considering the accessibility of selected centres and services of public utility facilities (inter alia cultural ones, libraries, green areas, public transport, public toilets). The analysis was carried out on the basis of statistical data from the years 2020–2021, map data from city services (as of 2023), a survey conducted in 2023, as well as participant observation and information obtained from social service institutions (2019–2023). It was proved that the analyzed area is well-equipped with social services catering to the needs of older adults and has accessible and attractive green areas. The identified barriers are of physical nature (insufficient quality of public spaces, hindering independent movement) as well as present some informational challenges.