Autonomy, Wellbeing, and Social Interaction: Landscape design for Active Ageing

As the aging population rapidly increases, the health status of this group has become a pressing issue for the city of Guangzhou.  Evidence suggests that built environments are closely associated with the health of the elderly. However, the existing outdoor environments  are usually lack of awareness of the elderly’s needs. Therefore, inclusive design for the outdoor environment is necessary. Based on the concept of “Active Ageing Neighborhoods,” and different  residential outdoor environments, we explore not only the possibility for the design  of outdoor environments to improve the quality of life in the elderly, but also fulfill their basic need for autonomy, wellbeing, and social interaction. Specifically, we created a landscape toolkit aiming to 1) Provide a  walkable environment and easy access for the elderly to promote outdoor activities and increase options  for their daily life. 2) Meet the physical and mental needs of the elderly, through creating pleasant and comfortable outdoor environments for better sensory experience, health promotion, and subsequent self-esteem. 3) Foster social connection of the neighbors to prevent isolation and loneliness in old age, which also helps support interdependence and maintain the cognitive competence of the elderly.