Placed-base social wellbeing of the elderly residents at the neighbourhood scale (Case study: Isfahan/Iran)

The 21st century is witnessing a significant societal shift due to the ageing population, impacting various aspects of life, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This thesis aims to enhance understanding of social wellbeing among elderly residents at the neighbourhood level, with a focus on Isfahan, Iran. The research investigates the place-based elderly social wellbeing (ESW), exploring its definition, factors, measurement model, and influencing elements through three interrelated studies.

Chapter 1 introduces the thesis. Chapter 2 addresses gaps in the literature concerning the definition and influential factors of ESW within neighbourhoods in developing nations, focusing on elderly perspectives. Using a qualitative methodology, the study derives a new ESW definition and identifies seven influencing factors through literature review and semi-structured interviews with elderly residents from six neighbourhoods in Isfahan.

Chapter 3 develops and validates a comprehensive ESW scale. Employing a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative interviews and a survey of 1200 elderly residents (yielding 184 valid responses), this study posits ESW as a multifaceted construct. The findings validate the proposed ESW scale within the context of Isfahan, offering implications for urban policymakers to create context-specific models.

Chapter 4 investigates how neighbourhood urban form and sociodemographic factors impact ESW, addressing a gap in existing research. Using a mixed-methods approach, it applies the ESW model developed in Chapter 3 to analyse how perceived urban form factors (density, land-use mix) and sociodemographic factors (number of children, residency length, homeownership) influence ESW. Findings reveal that density, land-use mix, and residency length positively affect ESW, while homeownership shows no significant relation. Additionally, the study compares perceived ESW across different neighbourhoods and identifies underlying factors based on residents' quotes.

The escalating global phenomenon of population ageing underscores the necessity of understanding the specific needs, challenges, and aspirations of elderly residents within neighbourhood contexts. Place-based research that examines the influence of local urban form factors on ESW is crucial. This knowledge enables policymakers and urban planners to design age-friendly environments addressing the physical, social, and psychological needs of elderly individuals. By integrating urban planning and ESW considerations, this research contributes to the creation of more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable cities for all generations.

The findings hold significant implications for fostering communities where the elderly can thrive, actively participate, and continue to enrich the social fabric of urban landscapes. The elderly population plays a crucial role in societal development, and neighbourhoods significantly influence their physical and social wellbeing. Understanding these unique needs and challenges, particularly in local contexts, should inform policies and programs, especially at local levels.

This thesis enriches the expanding literature on place-based social wellbeing among the elderly by:

• Outlining the perception of ESW within developing nation contexts.

• Advancing a conceptualisation and measurement model of perceived ESW within the elderly residents.

• Providing a holistic understanding of ESW by scrutinising perceived urban form factors in age-friendly neighbourhoods and their impact on ESW.

• Examining variations in perceived ESW among the elderly based on different sociodemographic backgrounds.

These contributions are vital for policymakers and urban planners striving to create age-friendly neighbourhoods that enhance ESW.