Abstract
This study examines the impact of rural aesthetics and cultural practices on fostering active ageing in a case study village of Baan Pong Nuea, a rural community in Northern Thailand. Focusing on a high proportion of elderly residents, the research explores how the physical environment, cultural traditions, and social structures contribute to health and well-being among older adults. Active ageing in rural contexts is underrepresented in the literature, particularly concerning how aesthetic and cultural elements create supportive environments that foster physical health, mental resilience, and social inclusion. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study gathered quantitative data through structured surveys with 144 elderly residents, complemented by qualitative insights from in-depth interviews and site surveys. Quantitative findings revealed that well-maintained communal spaces and natural landscapes significantly correlated with self-reported health measures, and participation in cultural practices was positively associated with mental and emotional well-being. Qualitative findings underscored the sense of place attachment among elderly residents, with community spaces and cultural practices fostering a sense of purpose and social connection. This research offers essential insights for policymakers, urban planners, and community leaders, advocating for culturally and aesthetically sensitive approaches in rural planning to promote active ageing. By highlighting the importance of the physical and cultural environment in supporting the well-being of elderly residents, this study contributes to a broader understanding of active ageing in rural contexts.
Author Information
Alisa Nutley, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
Paper Information
Conference: KAMC2024
Stream: Architecture
This paper is part of the KAMC2024 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Nutley A. (2024) The Role of Rural Aesthetics and Cultural Practices in Promoting Active Ageing in Northern Thai Community ISSN: 2436-0503 – The Kyoto Conference on Arts, Media & Culture 2024: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 593-607) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2024.51
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2024.51
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