Ageing and Gender: Toward a Gender-Sensitive Architectural Framework

Abstract

Drawing on environmental gerontology, universal design theory and feminist gerontology, this study investigates how the built environment mediates ageing differently for women and men. A critical review of theoretical frameworks and comparative cases from Singapore, Japan and the United Kingdom identifies accessibility, safety, psychological comfort, social integration and cultural responsiveness as key architectural determinants of ageing outcomes. The Nigerian context reveals significant gaps in policy, professional practice and inclusive design: elderly women are disproportionately affected by inaccessible domestic environments, economic vulnerability and social isolation, while elderly men face identity loss and limited opportunities for social engagement. The paper proposes an integrated framework for gender-sensitive architectural practice extending beyond compliance-based accessibility toward empathetic, culturally grounded and socially inclusive design.