The association of spatial configuration with social network for elderly in social housing

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the association of spatial configuration with social interaction for elderly. A social housing in Seoul was selected for the case study. Using space syntax and social network analysis, the association was examined statistically. This research employed an integration indicator which is most closely related to space use pattern. Questionnaire and interview surveys were conducted to illustrate the pattern of social network. Using the collected data, NetMiner was utilized to conduct a quantitative analysis. Degree, closeness and betweenness indicators were employed to measure relationships in these networks and between individuals. The characteristics of the association established by the statistical analysis between spatial network of housing estate and social network of elderly were discussed. Our results show that spatial network properties can explain characteristics of social network. The accessibility of residential spaces for elderly individuals in social housing apartment complex has an effect on the strength of the social network with neighbours. Also, analysis of the spatial configuration accessibility for the elderly population with integration values has illustrated that the result was opposite to the general theory that ‘the locations with high accessibility could foster more interactions’. Our findings have suggested that we can have a better knowledge to foster more social network among elderly by planning improved spatial network.

Residents’ Spatial-Usage Behavior and Interaction According to the Spatial Configuration of a Social Housing Complex: A Comparison between High-Rise Apartments and Perimeter Block Housing

“…People living in the complex with good accessibility from the outside had many nodding acquaintances. However, in Kim and Kim's study [8], the indicator related to interaction was local integration. Since their study included only one complex, and did not include a city, it was acknowledged that the local indicator was more relevant as the study considered only movement inside the complex.…”

“…Kim et al [2] describes that spatial configurations of living units are related to suicide rates. Kim and Kim [8] show that spatial configurations of living units housing the elderly are related to their social networks.…”

“…In complexes where residents have been settled for a long time, people show a high tendency to interact with others when accessibility to their residences is low. As interaction in such spaces is not straightforward, because of spatial characteristics, the desire to meet people increases [8]. Although secluded areas are regarded as unsafe space because of a lack of surveillance, crimes such as theft require an escape route and so are more likely to occur in places that are well connected to the city than in an isolated area [26].…”

“…Therefore, the social-spatial characteristics of these two forms of housing require objective and empirical research. In this regard, spatial configuration is considered an important factor in interactions between people and creating a healthy residential environment [8,9]. Thus, the purpose of this study was to compare the frequency of interaction between neighbors, based on the type of spatial configuration: high-rise apartments and the perimeter block housing.…”

Identifying effective elements of women's social interactions in cultural centres

“…13 In the meantime, interactions that happen in the communal spaces are proven to be more influenced by the physical environment. [14][15][16] CC as a part of communal spaces 13 are mainly recognized as an active social centre for presenting cultural and artistic activities which develop cultural growth of the society. 17 Accordingly, due to their profound impact on the field of human cognition, Iranian CC are considered as crucial buildings and represent a region's cultural background, its richness and antiquity and also national and human identity.…”