Effects of the built and social features of urban greenways on the outdoor activity of older adults

Abstract

By 2026, the older population in Taiwan will account for 20% of the total population. The role of urban green spaces is critical for older people to maintain an active lifestyle. Urban greenways not only provide a physical environment that supports outdoor activities but also provide social capital and social cohesion to encourage older adults to participate in outdoor activities in their neighbourhoods. The availability of these areas, thus, improves the participation of older adults in outdoor activities. This study developed a multilevel model to examine the effects of the physical and social environment of neighbourhood greenways at the neighbourhood level on individual participation in outdoor activities in the urban greenways of Taichung at the individual level. The data included 13 greenways and 769 participants aged over 55, who lived in the vicinity of the greenways. The results show that participants who live near greenways with higher levels of neighbourhood social capital and better-quality paths, natural elements, and seating participate in more outdoor activities. Urban greenways are generally linear public spaces situated along roads, and greenway designers and planners should place greater importance on the quality of the environment. Landscape designers can design high-quality paths and seating areas with many natural elements to promote outdoor activity among older adults.