IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PUBLIC SPACES AMONG URBAN ELDERLY IN CHIANG MAI: A MIXED- METHODOLOGY STUDY

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe and analyze the implementation of public space among the urban elderly in Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai province. The study employed sequential mixed-methodology research. For the qualitative approach, in-depth interviewsand observation were conducted with 15 key informants, including a community leader and the elderly who live in Chiang Mai municipality. Content analysis was applied for qualitative analysis. A quantitative approach was conducted by interviewing 370 unban elderly people. The obtained data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics.

            The results found that the types of public space for the urban elderly place public space, open public space, and transformational public space in the community. Most of them choose to use public spaces not far from their residences. Cars or motorcycles with easy access to public areas. The use time of public areas is uncertain. Public areas are used on weekdays at least twice a week. The reason for using public space is convenient activities, especially related activities. The reason for using public spaces is because of the convenience of doing various activities, especially karmic activities related to health care both physically and mentally. The problems and obstacles in the use of public space for the elderly include traffic congestion and limited parking spaces. The satisfaction expected in the public area of Chiang Mai is at a high level. Therefore, the relevant departments have more traffic management and parking lots. In addition, it is convenient for the elderly to use public space.