Vol. 11, Special Issue 11, Part A (2025)

Abstract

Background: Age-friendly cities and communities (Age-Friendly Cities and Communities) aim to support older adults in remaining active, healthy, and socially connected. Physical activity is essential for healthy ageing, while Education for Sustainability (Education for Sustainability) within physical education (PE) provides opportunities to develop lifelong active behaviours and environmental responsibility. This scoping review examines the intersection of physical activity in Age-Friendly Cities and Communities and Education for Sustainability in PE to identify evidence gaps, inform policy, and propose practical recommendations.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted using a five-step framework: (1) identifying research questions, (2) identifying relevant studies, (3) selecting studies, (4) charting the data, and (5) collating, synthesising, and reporting the results. Eligible sources included empirical studies and reviews addressing physical activity in Age-Friendly Cities and Communities or Education for Sustainability in PE. Data extraction captured study aims, methodology, populations, key findings, and policy implications.

Results: Findings were synthesised under three domains: (a) built environment and accessibility, (b) social inclusion and community programming, and (c) educational strategies linking Education for Sustainability and PE across the lifespan. Key gaps included limited integration of Education for Sustainability into age-friendly physical activity initiatives, insufficient intergenerational programming, and a lack of evaluation of long-term behaviour change.

Conclusions: Embedding Education for Sustainability principles into PE and community-based physical activity programs presents a significant opportunity to support sustainable active ageing in Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. This review provides actionable recommendations for educators, urban planners, and health professionals.