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Participatory Design Processes for Age-Friendly Neighbourhoods and Dwellings
Conference paper   Peer reviewed

Participatory Design Processes for Age-Friendly Neighbourhoods and Dwellings

Claudia Baldwin, Caroline Osborne and P Smith
UPE10 Symposium Proceedings, pp.641-653
International Urban Planning and Environmental Association Symposium (UPE), 10th (Sydney, Australia, 24-Jul-2012–27-Jul-2012)
ICMS Pty Ltd
2013
url
http://www.upe10.org/View
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Abstract

Urban and Regional Planning
In Australia, smart growth is increasingly the mandate of the urban planner, development industry and a characteristic of contemporary good governance in preparation for the twin global trends of increasing urbanisation and population ageing. Key to making cities more age-friendly is including seniors as partners in directing their future lifestyles, as social participation and inclusion are connected to good health and well-being (WHO, 2002). The objective of this research therefore was to explore what constitutes liveable, sustainable and affordable neighbourhoods and dwellings for seniors in infill locations in South East Queensland. Photovoice is a process by which people can identify, represent and enhance their community by taking photos to share expertise and local knowledge (Wang & Burris, 1997). Using Photovoice as a method of participatory research and engagement, senior participants used digital cameras to take up to 20 photographs around four thematic questions to illustrate their perceptions of the built environment. Following a workshop session where participants shared their images and perceptions, this data was then used as input into a series of charrettes, where seniors directed a planning team of architects and urban designers to design accommodation in infill locations. This is the first time that these methods have been used together. The research results include key principles identified by senior participants that describe how they envisage age-friendly neighbourhood and dwelling design in infill locations, supported by current academic literature, together with examples of age-friendly designs developed with participants. This research will assist planners, developers, aged care providers, State and Municipal government to facilitate greater industry uptake of age-friendly concepts in neighbourhood and dwelling settings.

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