Purpose
This study evaluates the residential planning strategies that urban commercial transport workers in Ghana intend to implement as they prepare for retirement and the factors that influence these decisions using the ecological systems theory and the social constructionism theoretical approaches.
Design/Methods
This study used the qualitative study approach. Fifteen (15) urban transport workers aged 50 and older in Elmina and Cape Coast urban centres were sampled using the purposive and convenience sampling methods. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to ageing experiences, housing choices, and challenges in preparing for future living arrangements. Ethical issues like informed consent and anonymity were duly adhered to, and peer review pathways were adapted to ensure inter-rater reliability of themes generated.
Findings
The research findings indicate that urban transport workers prioritise ageing in place, emphasising the importance of familiarity and community connections. Economic stability, family support, and societal expectations are just a few of the factors that have an impact on their planning strategies for residential preferences. The research highlights the ways in which cultural narratives or myths about ageing and retirement impact individual perceptions and decisions regarding housing.

Originality
This study provides valuable insights into ageing and retirement planning for transport workers in Ghana, enabling policymakers and urban planners to create supportive housing policies that cater to the needs of older individuals in fast-urbanising environments. It also explores the possibility of integrating ecological systems theory with social constructionism perspective to understand ageing and retirement planning strategies.

Authors:
Emefa Tonorgbevi Awuku, Lingnan University, Hong Kong
Stephen Ampah, Technische Universität Dortmund, Germany

About the Presenter(s)
Ms. Emefa Tonorgbevi Awuku is second Year PhD student at Lingnan University, Hong Kong (SAR)

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emefa-tonorgbevi-a-731011135/

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Emefa-Awuku

See this presentation on the full schedule – Tuesday Schedule

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