IN-PERSON Manchester Livable Cities

Abstract

People older than 60 years are the fastest-growing age group in Chile. Despite that, housing is not age-friendly and does not address older persons’ needs and everyday practices. The predominant form of new dwellings in many Chilean cities is currently collective housing. When properly designed and managed, common spaces in collective housing can become vital spaces for older persons to maintain their daily routines. In this context, this research identifies and characterizes the everyday practices of older women in common spaces of collective housing, such as common gardens, corridors, and entry halls. To this end, walking interviews were conducted with thirty-two older women in four types of collective housing in pericentral neighborhoods of Santiago, Chile, exploring how attributes of the built environment in common spaces facilitate or constrain everyday activities, whether performed alone or in company. Results show that common spaces play an important role in the everyday lives of elderly women, as these places allow older women to develop social interaction, caregiving, and physical activity. Furthermore, results reveal the importance of greenery, seating, universal accessibility, and intergenerational playgrounds for age-friendly common spaces. In the context of an ageing population, this study concludes with recommendations for creating inclusive and age-friendly common spaces in collective housing that align with the daily needs of older persons.