Sustainable smart retirement city: a concept paper

The aging population is rapidly increasing. Globally, people over 60 years old are expected to double by 2050, rising from 1 billion to 2 billion. Malaysia is also included where almost 15.3 percent of Malaysians will be above 60 years by 2030. World Health Organization 2019 highlighted the need for communities to deliver better outcomes for older adults. In promoting better life, it is crucial for our government to have a comprehensive framework of retirement cities in responding to the needs of elderly people. This study intends to suggest a framework for sustainable smart retirement cities. The study will be using in-depth, semi-structured interviews with six groups namely, local authorities, old folks home operators, retired citizens, pre-retirement citizens, PLANMalaysia, and developers. The themes will be determined after the data collection by using an inductive approach. Thematic analysis is used to easily approach the data set and allows flexibility in interpreting the data. The findings aim to highlight to the related authorities on the viable living option for older Malaysian and are considered as adding advancement in social planning for the elderly. This is in conjunction with the National Policy for Older Persons in Malaysian Plan. The study also helps Malaysia uphold SDGs 11 and 3 (sustainable cities and communities; Good Health and Well-Being). The significance of this study will address the importance of having a comprehensive framework using Malaysian preferences in meeting the aging population's needs so that they are able to continuously contribute to the nation's development within their capacity and expertise.