Social Day Care Centre: A New Architectural Model to Improve Elderly’s Quality of Life

The ageing population in Italy calls for a reassessment of housing and care models for the elderly, particularly through the development of Social Day Care Centres (SDCCs). These centres are envisioned as key elements of urban life, addressing the complex needs of the elderly by combining social interaction, health-care, and community integration. Central to the SDCC model is the idea of ‘ageing in place’, which aims to reduce social isolation and promote well-being by enabling the elderly to remain in their homes and communities. The SDCCs are designed for a wide spectrum of elderly users, from those who are independent to those with varying degrees of reduced autonomy or cognitive impairments. These centres offer both social activities and healthcare services tailored to meet diverse needs. The design approach is inspired by European examples, especially from Spain, focusing on accessibility, flexibility, and seamless integration into the urban environment. Situ-ated in central and peripheral urban areas, SDCCs encourage intergenerational inter-actions, foster social cohesion, and incorporate digital health monitoring tools. They serve as a critical component of community-based healthcare systems. The adaptable nature of these centres allows them to be integrated into different urban contexts, ranging from standalone buildings to extensions within existing facilities. This flex-ibility ensures that SDCCs can evolve alongside societal changes, contributing to an inclusive and sustainable framework for elderly care in urban settings.