Unveiling Urban Engagement: A Comprehensive Study of Older Adults' Interaction with Public Spaces

Abstract

The global demographic landscape is undergoing a significant shift towards an aging population, particularly in urban areas. Eurostat's data from 2023 reveals that the proportion of individuals aged 65 and over in the total population of EU countries has increased from 18% in 2012 to 21.1% in 2022. Addressing the unique needs and challenges of older adults is crucial for creating inclusive and age-friendly environments that promote active and healthy aging, aligning with the goals of the UN Decade of Healthy Aging (2021–2030). Urban environments play a pivotal role in shaping individuals' quality of life, with older adults being particularly sensitive to the design and functionality of public spaces. Understanding how older adults perceive, navigate, and engage with public spaces is essential for developing interventions that cater to their specific requirements, fostering environments that promote physical activity, social connectivity, and overall well-being.

This micro-scale ethnographic study explores the multifaceted engagement of older adults with public spaces through one-to-one interactions. The research delves into preferred locations, the rationale behind these choices, and the diverse activities undertaken within these spaces. The study leverages three theoretical frameworks - Hägerstrand's (1970) time geography, Giddens' (1984) Model of Structuration, and Lynch's (1960) concept of 'mental maps' - to enhance the understanding of older adults' engagement with public spaces.

Hägerstrand's theory has been extensively used as a comprehensive model for examining accessibility in various studies (Patterson & Farber, 2015). Its framework is instrumental in exploring how older adults manage their time in relation to public space engagement, hence facilitating the analysis of the temporal patterns of their activities, the duration spent in different locations, and the temporal constraints influencing their mobility within public spaces. Giddens' Model of Structuration, on the other hand, helps in understanding how social norms, cultural expectations, and institutional arrangements influence choices, preferences, and behaviors within urban environments. Giddens' concept of the "duality of structure" is particularly relevant in exploring how older adults navigate and contribute to shaping the social structures embedded in public spaces. In turn, Lynch's notion of mental maps refers to the cognitive representations individuals construct of their spatial environment. Examining the mental maps of older adults sheds light on their subjective perceptions, preferences, and cognitive strategies when navigating and interacting within urban environments.

To achieve the overarching aim, we conducted qualitative and ethnographic face to face and online interviews with a cohort of 12 participants aged 65 and above, located in Lisbon, Portugal. The research methodology encompassed cognitive mapping exercises, and in-depth interviews based on the three theoretical frameworks. This study is part of ongoing research, and the comprehensive examination of gathered data is yet to be finalized. Anticipated findings will be available shortly, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the spatial experiences of older adults by delving not only into the tangible features and physical aspects of public spaces but also the cognitive representations shaping their perceptions and behaviors.

This study represents a significant step towards comprehending the intricate relationship between older adults and urban public spaces, hence contributing to the broader discourse on creating inclusive and supportive spaces that enable an active and healthy ageing, aligning with the goals of the UN Decade of Healthy Aging and Sustainable Development Goals.