Spatial Practises and Preferences of Older and Younger People: Findings from the Finnish Studies

Abstract

There are strong tendencies in urban segregation, not only according to social class, gender and ethnic lines but also according to age. This paper draws on the findings of three studies conducted in Lahti, Finland, to examine the intergenerational aspects of spatial practise. It is argued that people look at their environment through a generational gaze, such that different generations have different spatial preferences and practises. In this article, an age-friendly living environment refers to one that appeals not only to older people but to people of all ages. Age-friendly environments have no segregating borderlines, but rather enable the meeting and communication of different aged people and sustain age integration. As older and young people are most dependent on their living environments, the paper concentrates on their use of space and attachment to place. Our special focus is on recreational activities and places: How and where older and young people spend leisure time? What are their favourite places? What is the importance of nature and different kind of urban spots for them? On the basis of the differences and similarities found out in their spatial practises and preferences, our aim is to discuss age-friendly environments that appeal to different aged people. The study is based on qualitative and quantitative data and draws out implications for future age-diverse communities.

Keywords::

• age segregation
• age-friendly environment
• age integration
• generations

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Riikka Puhakka

Riikka Puhakka, PhD, has worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Helsinki, Palmenia Centre for Continuing Education, Finland. Recently she has studied young people's outdoor recreation and relationship to nature. Address: Palmenia Centre for Continuing Education, University of Helsinki, Kirkkokatu 16, FIN-15140 Lahti, Finland. [email: [email protected]]

Jaana Poikolainen

Jaana Poikolainen, PhD, works as a university researcher at the University of Helsinki, Palmenia Centre for Continuing Education, Finland. She has devoted to family research, and her recent studies have focused on children's and parents, well-being. Address: Palmenia Centre for Continuing Education, University of Helsinki, Kirkkokatu 16, FIN-15140 Lahti, Finland. [email: [email protected]]

Antti Karisto

Antti Karisto, PhD, is a professor of social gerontology at the University of Helsinki. He has published extensively on health and well-being, social policy, urban issues and everyday life. His recent studies have focused on retirement migration and life styles of the elderly. Address: Department of Social Research, University of Helsinki, Snellmaninkatu 10, FIN-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland. [email: [email protected]]