Jinyi Tang
Optimizing the Walkability of Streets in Age-Friendly Neighborhoods from a Cross-Cultural Perspective
My research explores the intersection of urban design, cultural values, and aging populations. The study aims to investigate how cultural dimensions, specifically collectivism and long-term orientation, influence the walkability of streets in age-friendly neighborhoods, with a comparative focus on China and New Zealand. Walkability, a critical component of urban livability, refers to the ease and safety with which people can walk in their environment. For older adults, walkability is particularly important as it directly impacts their mobility, social engagement, and overall quality of life. However, the perception and utilization of walkable spaces are deeply influenced by cultural values. Different cultural dimensions may influence the design and experience of walking in different societies. The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques. Case studies of selected communities in China and New Zealand were analyzed to determine how cultural values are reflected in the physical and social aspects of walking. Surveys and interviews with older people, urban planners and policy makers in both countries provide insights into the lived experiences and preferences of the ageing population. It is shown that culturally sensitive urban planning strategies are needed to meet the unique needs of the aging population in different cultural contexts. The study concludes with a set of guiding principles for optimizing the walkability of streets in age-friendly communities to accommodate cultural values of collectivism and long-term orientation. By incorporating cultural considerations into urban design, the study aims to contribute to the development of more inclusive and sustainable environments.
Supervisors
Dr Bruno Marques & Jacqueline McIntosh
Publications
- Jinyi Tang et al., “Spatio-temporal Distribution of Negative Air lon Concentration and lts Influencing Factors in Shanghang City”, Journal of Natural Science of Hunan Normal University, 05, 2023, pp 124-135.
- Jinyi Tang, Shiwei Wang and Hejun Li, “Research Progress on Garden Greening and Odour Emission Reduction Control in Livestock and Poultry Farms”, Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences, 18, 2021, pp 5-8.
- Jinyi Tang et al., “Application and Research Progress of Electronic Nose in Livestock and Poultry Farms”, Modern Agricultural Science and Technology, 15, 2021, pp 194-196, 203.