| Summary: | The purpose of this study was to identify benefits and constraints associated with
the use of urban parks by a sample of elderly in Hong Kong. Before studying these topics,
self-perception of aging of the elderly in Hong Kong was explored. In-depth interviews
were conducted with 13 individuals inside and 12 outside the Tsuen Wan Jockey Club
Tak Wah Park. Purposive sampling was used to select the sample. The interviews were
semi-structured, based on an interview guide of open-ended questions.
Results of the study suggested that although there are some differences in
explanations of aging among different countries, some aging models and theories which
have been developed in western countries can be employed to interpret the aging
phenomenon in Hong Kong. Several constraints and health-related social and
psychological benefits of attending a park were reported by the sample. Heterogeneity of
leisure constraints among different age cohorts of the elderly was found in the study.
Although similarities were found between the benefits reported in this study and those
reported in western countries, the magnitude of benefits received from visiting parks may
be different because of the different characteristics of elderly in different countries.
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