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ABSTRACT
Place attachment has implications for older adults’ well-being and psychological benefits such as belonging, enjoyment, connection, and privacy. The purpose of this study was to examine the presence of older adults’ place attachment in comparison to urban and rural senior cohousing communities, highlighting similar and contrasting design features that assist place attachment. Both communities in this study are located in the Midwest of the United States. A total of 24 older adults participated in this study: 10 participants from the rural community and 14 from the urban community. Participants attended individual interviews where researchers asked questions related to place attachment and design features that affect their experiences in the senior cohousing community. Results show that when comparing the rural and urban communities, the design features that were more prevalent in the rural community focused more on community and guest aspects (Friend Bonding) and natural elements within the community (Nature Bonding). The urban location, however, had design features that were associated with functionality (Place Dependence), the relationship between residents (Friend Bonding), and the natural elements surrounding the community (Nature Bonding). This analysis could be used as evidence-based design for the development of future senior cohousing communities and other older adult facilities.
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No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
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Notes on contributors
Gabriela Fonseca Pereira
Gabriela Fonseca Pereira, PhD, is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Design, Housing and Merchandising at Oklahoma State University. Gabriela is a Brazilian interested in improving the quality of life of older adults through Interior Design and Product Design. Gabriela has recently completed her PhD at Oklahoma State University sponsored by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq – Brazil).
Melissa Lies
Melissa Lies is an interior designer at KKT Architects in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She received her Bachelor of Science from the Department of Design, Housing and Merchandising (Interior Design) at Oklahoma State University. As an Undergraduate Research Assistant, she focused her research on design for special populations, specifically senior cohousing communities.
Mihyun Kang
Mihyun Kang, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Design, Housing and Merchandising (Interior Design) at Oklahoma State University and holds the Chris Salmon Professorship. She focuses her scholarly work on sustainable interior design and design for special populations, such as older adults.