MULTIGENERATIONAL COMMUNITIES FOR ACTIVE AGING IN PLACE

Abstract

Everyone ages, but only some manage to age successfully. In preparation for the silver tsunami, our government has been corresponding with the public to find out how we can enhance the aging process in Singapore. As a family-centric nation, we are given priority to live with or be close to our extended families. It has been reported that more three-generation flats will be constructed to encourage multiple generations to live under one roof. Yet, how effective are these homes in assisting family bonding? We also notice that more seniors are opting to live independently or only with their spouses. Growing used to living alone in our fast-paced society, multigenerational flats can be too close for comfort. How then, can we ensure that our family ties do not grow weaker? This dissertation aims to reform the concept of multigenerational living by approaching the issue from two different perspectives. A comparison will be made between seniors living in multigenerational households and seniors living independently. Specific architectural strategies will then be identified to guide us into building inclusive communities. Consequently, the design scheme should also promote healthy aging. Our seniors need to remain active so that they can put their wealth of knowledge and experience to good use. As such, the proposal of developing multigenerational communities that support aging in place will not only benefit multiple generations, but also allow the seniors to focus on active aging.