“Nature in the neighborhood”: the importance of greenspaces near older people's homes

Abstract

This study looks at the importance of ‘nature in the neighborhood’ for older people living in urban high-rise buildings. Data were collected via group discussions and individual walking interviews, and then analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis and design principles approach from the perspective of biophilia. Participants ascribed various reasons as to why having nature nearby was important; these were grouped into five themes: affects, functionality, socializing, weather, and built nature. A key finding was that for older adults with limited mobility having nature in their immediate neighborhood meant they could have easy access to it and maintain a “sense of adventure.” Nature close to home offered a chance to enjoy solitude as well as social encounters. The findings support the need to apply biophilic design principles in planning urban environments so that older people too can enjoy greenspaces. In conclusion, we argue that aging should not be an obstacle to enjoying nature in all its forms.