Comparative evaluation of public space activities of older individuals in terms of gender and settlement typology: Case of Sinop (Türkiye)

Abstract

This study examines the active aging potential of the elderly population in Sinop, the Turkish province with the highest proportion of elderly residents (TURKSTAT, 2024a), under the pandemic conditions of 2020. Given the intrinsic relationship between activity and environment, the research explores how the daily activities of the elderly vary by rural-urban settlement type and gender within the framework of the Person-Environment-Activity Model. By analyzing these factors, the study provides planning recommendations for active aging at both local and national levels. Aging and activity remain underexplored topics in T & uuml;rkiye. This study aims to contribute to aging research in the country while engaging with global discussions on activity theory. The research involved structured interviews with 209 rural and 323 urban elderly individuals, with data analyzed using SPSS. Elderly individuals in urban areas engage more in shopping (46.6%) and exercise (38.3%), while those in rural areas participate more in work (22%), gardening/farming (10.1%), and religious activities (3.9%). Gender-based analysis revealed that men participate more frequently in public sports and recreational activities (41.9%), while women are more engaged in garden/farm maintenance (14.5%) and artistic/cultural activities (4.5%). Enhancing societal awareness of active aging and improving the quality and accessibility of physical environments could foster greater participation in diverse activities among the elderly. This would promote well-being and social integration.