PERCEPTION AND USE OF PUBLIC OPEN SPACE BY THE ELDERLY IN HDB PRECINCTS

Abstract

Amidst a backdrop of a growing greying population, it can be observed that more elderly are utilising the open spaces within the HDB precincts. They have carved out their own niche places such as interaction corner with chess boards and makeshift tables and chairs. The trend begs the question: Is the current open space adequate and conducive for social interaction among the elderly? The study conducted at the Toa Payoh and Yishun elderly Studio Apartments and their immediate precincts revealed that a relatively high proportion of elderly above 65 years old, use the open space, especially the void deck on a daily basis. About 50% reported that the open space provision within their precinct is inadequate and 63% opined that its layout is not conducive for social interaction. Recommendations to improve the open space from the elderly themselves include having socially adaptive layout, ‘presentable’ open space provision and, social events, including gardening, and the provision of TV, chat areas, socket for coffee making and potted plants to improve the open space environment. Pockets of unused spaces in the precincts that command good views and location could be converted to recreational spaces. At the studio apartments surveyed, safety and security enhancement were major concerns.