SOCIAL INEQUALITIES, TERRITORY, AND HOUSING IN THE AGING PROCESS: REFLECTIONS ON THE CHALLENGES TO DIGNIFIED AGING

Abstract

Population aging is one of the main contemporary demographic transformations, but it occurs in contexts marked by profound social, economic, and territorial inequalities that condition different experiences of aging. This article aimed to critically reflect on the influence of social and territorial inequalities on the aging process, discussing how housing conditions, urban mobility, and environmental barriers impact the autonomy, safety, and quality of life of older adults. This is a reflective article, based on a critical analysis of contemporary scientific literature on the social determinants of aging, with an emphasis on housing conditions, accessibility, urban mobility, and environmental vulnerabilities. The reflection was organized into two thematic axes: social and territorial inequalities as determinants of aging, and housing and the built environment as expressions of inequities that compromise the autonomy and social participation of older adults. The analysis showed that healthy aging depends on the interaction between biological, social, and territorial factors, being strongly influenced by the living conditions accumulated throughout the life course. Inadequate housing environments, architectural barriers, and difficulties with mobility and accessibility increase the risk of falls, favor functional limitations, and intensify processes of social exclusion. It is concluded that addressing inequalities in aging requires intersectoral public policies that integrate health, housing, urban planning, mobility, and social assistance, promoting inclusive and accessible environments capable of ensuring autonomy, social participation, and quality of life for older people.