Aging and Migration: The “Web” of New Residents from Cities to Inner Areas

Abstract

The study presents the preliminary results of a broader research work on the topic of the migratory phenomenon and its “territorialization processes”. Italy is facing the rapid aging of its population, and if this highlights the positive increase in life expectancy, on the other hand underscores low birth rates. According to Istat (2024a), life expectancy in 2023 was estimated to be around 80,6 years for men and 85,1 for women, while the birth rate fell below 400,000. In this context, migration can play an important role since the arrival of an active population with a higher propensity to have children could not only partially mitigate the population decline but also ensure the economic and social revitalization of declining areas. The article analyses the relationship between aging and residential mobility of foreigners in so-called “Are Interne” (Strategia Nazionale per le Aree Interne, SNAI, Article 1 of Legge di stabilità 2014 n. 147/2013). Starting from a reflection on inner areas that allows for rethinking relationships between peripheral territories and urban contexts, the study focuses on the themes of aging, mobility, human and social capital.