Journal of Design Thinking

Journal of Design Thinking

A Framework for Leveraging the Capacities of Digital Technology to Improve the Quality of Life of Older Adults in Urban Public Space Design, Case Study: Zand Street, Shiraz, Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Esmaeil Fotovat 1
Ali Safavi 2
Bahareh Tadayon 1
Mohammad Rashtian 1
1 Department of Urbanism., Tourism, Architecture and Urban Research Center, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
2 Department of Urban Planning, Art & Architecture Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22059/jdt.2026.409813.1180
Abstract
The current research was conducted with the aim of explaining and presenting a framework for utilizing the capacities of digital technology to improve the quality of the elderly’s presence in urban public spaces, focusing on Zand Street in Shiraz through a mixed and analytical approach. This study identifies and prioritizes components enhancing the elderly’s presence while analyzing the spatial and functional characteristics of the environment. First, documentary studies and literature reviews were used to extract indicators affecting the quality of elderly presence across physical, social, technological, functional, natural, and managerial dimensions. To understand actual conditions, field analyses including direct observation and environmental surveys of Zand Street were conducted. This stage identified behavioral patterns, spatial strengths/weaknesses, and user interactions with environmental elements and existing technologies. Subsequently, the Analytic Network Process (ANP) measured the relative importance of indicators and analyzed their interrelationships. Data were collected through purposive questionnaires from elderly users with continuous experience in the studied space. Finally, ANP results and field findings were integrated to provide a practical framework for age-friendly public spaces emphasizing real environmental characteristics and user experience. Findings showed that while physical and social dimensions are foundational for active presence, digital technology acts as a facilitating factor. Results also indicated that a safe and accessible environment is a prerequisite for effective technology use and social interaction, while smart urban management can improve the effectiveness of other indicators. This research provides an integrated analytical framework combining spatial design and digital technology, serving as a practical guide for the design and management of age-friendly public spaces.
Keywords
Digital Technology
Quality of Life
Elderly
Urban Public Spaces
Zand Street in Shiraz
Subjects
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Journal of Design Thinking
Volume 6, Issue 2
December 2025
Pages 351-363