Gerontology and Urban Public Spaces of Global South: Case of China

Abstract

Urban public space has multiple facets for successful placemaking. Appropriation of a space is a manifestation of privatization and globalization. Through these various aspects, a public space becomes inclusive. Here the aspect of inclusivity is perceived through the eyes of elderly population of an urban space. Gerontological aspects deal with the need of elderly population of the society, and an inclusive urban design should confront with the elderly-friendly design. A critical analysis of urban public space in South Asian country like China is done with respect to the sociocultural scenario of elderly living condition. Key principles of elderly inclusive urban space are discussed. These principles become the tool to evaluate the elderly-friendly inclusive urban public design.