The Elderly In a Post-War Shopping Mall

The Elderly In a Post-War Shopping Mall: A study on the needs of the elderly in a neighbourhood shopping mall and the preservation of the neighbourhood shopping mall’s values

Delis, Kristen (TU Delft Architecture and the Built Environment)

Meijers, W.L.E.C. (mentor)
Meijer, A.S.C. (graduation committee)
Marulo, F. (graduation committee)
Quist, W.J. (graduation committee)

Delft University of Technology

Architecture, Urbanism and Building Sciences | Heritage & Architecture

2024-01-16

This research explores the evolving role of shopping malls in the lives of the growing elderly population in the Netherlands. Delving into the unique needs and desires of the elderly, the study emphasizes diversity, accessibility, community, and inclusivity within shopping centres. The research methodology integrates a comprehensive literature review, a case study of elderly-cantered architectural designs, and structured interviews with elderly individuals. Contrary to the prevalent literature portraying the elderly as fragile and facing significant challenges, the interviews unveil a diverse reality of ageing, emphasizing individuality and varied impacts on daily life. The case study elucidates themes of mobility and social community as crucial elements in the design of age-inclusive spaces. By integrating these perspectives, the research concludes that a one-size-fits-all blueprint for shopping malls is inadequate. Instead, designers should focus on incorporating practical amenities, a diverse shopping environment, promoting community, and ensuring accessibility to cater to the broad spectrum of elderly needs and preferences. Furthermore, the study advocates for ongoing research to understand how the ageing population’s needs influence urban environments and various functions within these spaces. Ultimately, this research envisions an age-inclusive future, where cities and spaces are designed to meet the evolving requirements of an ageing population, promoting inclusive and enjoyable environments for all.

The Elderly
Needs
Shopping Centre
Ageing

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:6552b7f3-0894-489c-b45a-1b4a2250503a

52.048328, 4.276686

Student theses

master thesis

© 2024 Kristen Delis