In a recent interview, Blanca Valdivia, an urban sociologist, contrasts the urban care and community ethos of Madrid with that of Barcelona, noting that the latter is much more accessible and considerate towards its citizens. Valdivia, who has a deep understanding of urban wellbeing rooted in her feminist perspective, illustrates how details like the placement of benches in public spaces can have profound impacts on community social interactions and public health.

Having personally experienced the challenges of urban navigation while caring for her father, whose health declined due to dementia and Parkinson's disease, Valdivia has insights that blend professional expertise with personal history. She emphasizes that simple infrastructure improvements can facilitate the lives of those with health challenges, highlighting the need for cities to be more mindful of their residents' needs, especially vulnerable populations.

As she prepares to participate in the Brain Film Fest in Barcelona to discuss these issues, her work seeks to broaden the dialogue around urban planning, mental health, and the implications of housing policies. Valdivia’s advocacy is aimed at inspiring cities to shift towards a model of care that prioritizes accessibility, safety, and social wellbeing.