Exploring the links between conceptions of the neighbourhood and gerontological research perspectives

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Abstract

The objective of this paper was to examine the notion of the 'neighbourhood' as used in the study of ageing. It is argued that the neighbourhood is a 'relative concept' and therefore needs to be studied from different angles. Exploring the links between theoretical conceptions of the neighbourhood as 'place' and 'community', and gerontological research perspectives, it is discovered that three dominant approaches of the relationship between older people and their living environment are applied: the study of the 'physical', 'psychological' and 'social' environment. The conclusion underlines that the relationship between the elderly and their neighbourhood is usually studied in only one direction, guided by the question as to how the neighbourhood can be designed in order to support the process of 'ageing well'. It is suggested that exploring the opposite direction, or the question as to how older people contribute to the construction of their neighbourhood, is a vital new challenge for social gerontology to address.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationStudies on social sciences
PublisherInternational conference on social sciences (ICSS)
Volume1
ISBN (Print)978-605-5741-00-6
Publication statusPublished - 2008

Publication series

Name
Number18

Keywords

  • sociology
  • geography
  • neighbourhood
  • place
  • community
  • elderly

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