7–11 Jul 2025
Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul
Europe/Brussels timezone

Belonging and Identity: Exploring the Impact of Community Centres on Female Older Adults in Public Housing

Not scheduled
20m
Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul

Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul

Oral Track 17 | PUBLIC SPACE

Speaker

Dr Izzy Jian Yi

Description

The community, particularly community centres, occupies a significant portion of female older adults’ daily time and activities in Hong Kong. This study interviewed 20 female seniors living in public housing to explore their daily activities within the community and community centres, as well as the meaning and value of these spaces and activities. The research demonstrates the interrelationship between the community and female older adults, highlighting the production of a sense of community belonging, the significance of community centres in shaping female older adults’ self-identity, and the enhancement of their social lives. The findings illustrate the crucial role of community and community centres in the self-identity and well-being of female older adults.

References

Adams, K.B., Leibbrandt, S. and Moon, H., 2011. A critical review of the literature on social and leisure activity and wellbeing in later life. Ageing & Society, 31(4), pp.683-712.
Ahmed, S., Castada, C., Fortier, A.-M. and Sheller, M. (2003). Uprootings/Regroundings : Questions of Home and Migration. Milton: Taylor & Francis Group.
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Kelly, M.E., Duff, H., Kelly, S., McHugh Power, J.E., Brennan, S., Lawlor, B.A. and Loughrey, D.G., 2017. The impact of social activities, social networks, social support and social relationships on the cognitive functioning of healthy older adults: a systematic review. Systematic reviews, 6, pp.1-18.
Li, C., Jiang, S., Li, N. and Zhang, Q., 2018. Influence of social participation on life satisfaction and depression among Chinese elderly: Social support as a mediator. Journal of community psychology, 46(3), pp.345-355.
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Ong, C.H., Pham, B.L., Levasseur, M., Tan, G.R. and Seah, B., 2024. Sex and gender differences in social participation among community-dwelling older adults: a systematic review. Frontiers in Public Health, 12, p.1335692.

Keywords Community; Female older adults; Public housing; Community belonging
Best Congress Paper Award Yes

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