[Virtual] Discussion w/ Professor Turesky: How can our cities plan for a diverse aging population?

How can our cities plan for a diverse aging population?

In this talk, we will be discussing The Policies and Places that Shape Aging with Power.

Aging-in-Place is a widely shared goal among older adults in the United States, but most cities and neighborhoods remain unprepared to meet the needs of an aging population. While the urban needs of older adults have garnered much needed attention, prevailing forms of governance still tend to treat older residents as a monolithic group, neglecting the particular agencies, needs, and desires of  diverse individuals. Age is only one aspect affecting a person’s experience of space, and one that intersects with many  others such as gender, race, sexuality, and class. This talk explores how multiple lines of difference overlap in shaping the spatial needs of diverse older adults. This talk examines the ways in which older adults navigate built and social environments to negotiate a sense of belonging.

We'll be exploring these questions and more!

• How does identity shape aging-in-place practices?
• How can cities and neighborhoods can improve the safety and health of a diverse aging community?
• What are some policies and planning that can enhance older adults’ access to age-friendly housing, transit, and care services?
• Why is your story important for improving equitable aging policies?
• [Message us with any other questions!]

Especially as we are joined by a guest, please be respectful of attendance and update your RSVP if you're no longer able to join - thank you!

About our guest host:

Marisa is a Visiting Professor in Real Estate Law and Urban Planning at UC Berkeley. She examines how identity, especially age, gender, race, and class, shape people’s urban spatial and service needs over the lifespan. Marisa’s dissertation examines how older lesbians' use of their houses and neighborhoods affects their navigation of care as they age. This project received the Tedesco Grant, the Gabard Fellowship, and the USC Research Enhancement Fellowship. Marisa’s community organizing informs the research questions that she asks, pushing her to influence institutions toward greater spatial justice. Her research and publications in top urban planning journals. Marisa has worked as a research fellow for USC’s Equity Research Center, the ONE Gay & Lesbian National Archive, and the Restorative Justice Institute of Maine. Marisa earned a BA in Anthropology and Gender Studies from Brandeis University, a Masters of City and Regional Planning from Cornell University, and a PhD in Urban Planning & Development from the University of Southern California. She enjoys biking with her puppy and wife, especially when the ride ends with french fries.