Urban amenities and paths in an Alpine region: the demographic challenge and the cultural heritage in Aosta Valley

The aging of the population is a demographic reality that confronts all nations in the industrialized World. As the population ages the work force will begin to diminish in relation to the retired population, and the dependency ratio, the number of retired individuals in relation to the working population,. While an aging population is an unmitigated “ticking time bomb” for national governments, this may well not be the case for urban regions. In recent research on the economic consequences for cities or urban economies one finds that in certain circumstances, with the right policies implemented, the consequences can be significantly positive so that urban regions can be net gainers from the aging of the population. With regard to the allocation of their time, attendance at cultural events has been positively correlated with higher educational attainment, as well as with income and age. Attendance at cultural events is disproportionate to their share of the population for the 55-64 and 65-74 age cohorts. Expenditure of time is related to expenditure of money, so we should expect to see increased expenditures for urban cultural and adult education institutions, for dining and entertainment, and for tourism. This applies to the case proposed in this paper, the Valle d’Aosta Alpine region: here, the capital city Aosta is facing transformations determined by the demographical change. As to its demography, the city’s population is aging but also is characterized by a positive migratory balance. Purpose The study examines the relevance of demographic change as a phenomenon in international economics. The consequences at regional and national level will be evident but the consequences can be also positive with the implementation of adequate policies for cultural and educational activities. Methodology The main contribution of this study is to propose a quantitative and qualitative research of economic and geography releted to the demographic change and the effects on small to medium-sized cities that could point to a tourism linked to a cultural heritage. In this paper the role of young and senior citizens will be discussed in supporting the activities of sectors that are crucial for a medium sized city aiming at being attractive for tourists and residents. Standing on an ongoing research project, the case and the policies implemented in Aosta and the region will be examined in order to assess the potential for the development paths of the future. Keywords: demographic change, cultural heritage, urban amenities References EC, European Commission, Demography Report 2008. 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