Evaluating the therapeutic qualities of community parks: An elderly-centric perspective

In the context of the demands of an ageing society, community parks serve as the most proximal outdoor spaces for elderly residents and play significant roles in both physical and mental well-being. However, despite their potential, there remains a research gap in the exploration of the therapeutic qualities that community parks provide for elderly individuals. This study analyses the therapeutic quality of community parks on Xiamen Island from the perspective of elderly individuals. The analysis is conducted in three dimensions: the physical environment, the social/activity environment and the cultural/symbolic environment. The pilot study employs a modified Community Park Audit Tool (CPAT), which is reclassified and synthesized based on therapeutic dimensions. On-site questionnaire surveys of 15 community parks were conducted, and 75 datasets were collected. The research revealed that the physical and cultural environments of community parks receive favourable evaluations. These environments adequately address the requirements of the elderly population. However, the social environment does not have significant effects. These results indicate that Songbai Park is widely recognized among elderly individuals for its outstanding therapeutic quality. In contrast, Huifeng Park has poor therapeutic quality. This research contributes to the evaluation of community parks that possess therapeutic qualities from the perspective of elderly individuals. By providing valuable insights for urban planners, policy-makers and other stakeholders, this study guides the optimization of community parks to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older urban residents and develop an elderly-friendly environment.