AbstractGARDENING CREATES BETTER COMMUNITY FOR INTERGENERATIONAL LIVING
Horticulture has been regarded as the number one leisure activity and provides wonderful opportunity for exercise and socialization (Larson and Meyer). Preliminary research has found that adult participation in gardening results in significant improvement in physical health (Shoemaker and Lin), as well as mental health by creating feelings of pride, competence, and satisfaction (Larson and Meyer). Similarly, it is also beneficial for younger generations to be involved in gardening to stay healthy while learning lessons about accountability, nurturing, and responsibility (Larson and Meyer). Intergenerational gardening improves physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being for all participants (Larson and Meyer). Gardening with younger generations enables the baby boomer generation to take part in an energetic and nurturing atmosphere. Also benefiting, pre-school children receive the care and attention they need while aiding aging citizens in physical tasks. Intergenerational community gardening not only helps aging people to stay healthy with moderate exercises, but also educates younger generations about plants and responsibilities. It is suggested that the positive results of gardening can apply to all members of a community. This project will explore architectural approaches influencing the social behavior in green spaces to create a mutually beneficial and educational community for inter-generation living. Main research methods are to collect information and benefits about intergenerational gardening and synthesize them into a model for intergeneration housing design. |