Research questions

The project examines how ageing, living alone, and intersecting social inequalities interact in urban settings. It aims to generate an empirical foundation for understanding the social and spatial mechanisms shaping ageing in place and to identify priorities for future research. The study asks: What challenges do older adults living alone face in Vienna, and how do social, economic, and spatial inequalities influence their ability to age well at home? What socio-spatial patterns emerge from existing datasets, and how do stakeholders perceive and address local needs, barriers, service gaps, and inequalities?

Methods/Research design

The study applies a mixed-methods design combining quantitative secondary data analysis with qualitative focus groups. First, existing datasets (e.g. census, register, health, and social data) are analysed to map the socio-spatial distribution of older adults living alone in Vienna’s 15th and 19th districts across key inequality dimensions, including gender, income, education, and migration background. Second, focus groups with local stakeholders explore service needs, gaps, and institutional perspectives. Integrating both approaches provides a deeper understanding of ageing, inequality, and urban change while identifying evidence gaps and policy challenges.

Results/dissemination

The project will produce the first comprehensive overview of the distribution and characteristics of older adults living alone in the two study districts. Findings will be disseminated through academic publications and shared with municipal authorities, social service providers, and other relevant stakeholders to inform evidence-based planning, service provision, and future research on ageing in place.