Understading the Role of Architectural Design in Enhancing Place Place Attachment for Senior Living Commmunities in Ahmedabad

Abstract

India, like many other countries worldwide, is experiencing a significant demographic shift with the aging of its population in India is expected to grow substantially in the coming years, leading to increased demands for specialized senior living environments. As the elderly face unique physical, Emotional, and social challenges, the role of architecture in enhancing their well-being and fostering a sense of placement becomes crucial. In senior living developments, design interventions can be incorporated to increase accessibility, safety, comfort, social interaction, and a sense of identity and belonging. According to research, social isolation and loneliness in senior citizens are linked to poor health and mental performance. Homes for seniors must endeavor to create an environment that promotes the senior’s best physical and mental health. This systematic review examines the link between social isolation, loneliness, and health outcomes among older people. The current housing units are either physically improper, have physical and structural problems or the elderly pay a lot of amount of their income on housing. Cattan, M., White, M., Bond, J., & Learmouth, A. (2005) Place attachment is defined as the emotional bond individuals form with their physical environment, has been recognized as a significant aspect of well-being in various contexts. The relationship between place attachment and the well-being of senior citizens in India is significant and multi-faceted. Some key aspects to define the relationship are emotional well-being, sense of identity and purpose, social support, and interaction with familiarity and comfort. It becomes essential to create supportive and age-friendly environments that foster attachment and enhance the quality of life. This study uses a mixed-methods approach. Including literature review, case studies, and sur veys to examine how to design interventions can enhance place attachment for seniors. The case studies examine elderly housing projects, emphasizing design elements that promote accessibility, safety, comfort, social interaction, and a sense of identity and belonging. The surveys aim to collect data from senior citizens living in selected cases to determine their level of place attachment and their perceptions of the role of design in promoting attachment. The findings will add to the existing body of knowledge about the relationship between the built environment and place attachment, particularly for senior citizens. Keywords: place attachment, senior living, place identity, sense of place, senior citizens, architectural features