Towards a sustainable longevity society: Instrumentalizing intergenerationality and human-centered design

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to decode the opportunities of longevity societies. Methodology: It uses a qualitative analytical methodology that is nourished by the learning of 6 years of research and projects carried out in mYmO1 (entity dedicated to intergenerational innovation). It also relies on technical knowledge and analysis original sources based on the Intergenerational approach and the Human-Centered Design. The proposal presents a clear goal that is to achieve Sustainable Cities and Communities, considering the unit of space-time measurement key to start mapping projects for long-lived societies. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) drawn up by the United Nations are mentioned as a reference for the scope of actions in the text, the target being SDG-11. In addition, all proposed actions are based on a premise that is taken as a basis and that lies in the importance of all actors assuming their responsibility in solving problems. In order to decode the opportunities that longevity societies offer and to achieve sustainable cities and communities, community ownership of change is considered essential. Results: Based on these considerations, a strategic matrix is designed that uses the Theory of Change to establish the relationships between actions and objectives. Desired changes are identified and what should happen to ensure that these changes lead to long-term results is analysed too. In addition, as a consequence of its practical implication, the proposed matrix is useful for small and large interventions, in any development and innovation project. Within this framework, intergenerational approach and human-centered design offer the methodology and tools to put into practice the development of concrete processes and projects. Limitations: It is an essay that shows some initiatives in concrete realities whose results are not universally extrapolated. Practical implications: As a result, new models of participation are made visible in which organizations, public authorities and individuals collaborate to solve current challenges.