ABSTRACT
Neighborhood parks may offer significant health and recreation benefits to older adults. Unfortunately, U.S. cities mostly lack parks that are designed and programmed to be senior-friendly. This chapter explores the scholarly and professional literatures and also draws from focus group discussions with older inner-city living adults in Los Angeles to compile design guidelines for age-friendly parks. Focus group participants emphasized six desirable characteristics for neighborhood parks: 1) security from human threats and environmental hazards; 2) good accessibility; 3) presence of natural elements (greenery, wildlife); 4) age-friendly park design and programming; 5) opportunities for walking and physical activity; and 6) settings and programs that encourage social interaction. The compiled design guidelines seek to satisfy these needs and are arranged around ten themes: 1) control; 2) choice; 3) safety and security; 4) accessibility; 5) social support; 6) physical activity; 7) privacy; 8) contact with nature; 9) comfort; and 10) aesthetic and sensory delight.
