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Volume 13, Issue 1 (Iranian Journal of Ergonomics 2025)                   Iran J Ergon 2025, 13(1): 48-57 | Back to browse issues page

Research code: 724134983
Ethics code: IR.MUBABOL.HRI.REC.1402.052


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Goran S, Pourhadi S, Tirgar A, Geraili Z. Assessment of the Structural Suitability of Parks for the Elderly with an Emphasis on Ergonomic Considerations. Iran J Ergon 2025; 13 (1) :48-57
URL: http://journal.iehfs.ir/article-1-1077-en.html
1- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
2- Social Determinants Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran , samaneh.pourhadi@gmail.com
3- Mobility Impairment Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
4- Social Determinants Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
Abstract:   (1422 Views)
Objectives: The use of parks is highly valuable for the elderly for various reasons, including physical, psychological, and social aspects. Therefore, the suitability of these spaces to the needs of the elderly is of particular importance. The present study aimed to determine and introduce criteria for the evaluation and classification of parks in terms of structural suitability for the elderly.
Methods: The present methodological study was designed in 2024 and conducted simultaneously with the psychometric and validation of the structural fit assessment tool for elderly-friendly parks. The structural components were identified through a literature review and validated using the Delphi method. After determining content validity, the items were classified into mandatory, essential, and ideal sections by obtaining at least two-thirds and one-third of the experts' votes, respectively. In addition, descriptive statistics were employed in data processing.
Results: The final review of 58 items by experts revealed that the majority of items (n=41, equivalent to 71%) were mandatory, 13 items (22%) were essential, and four items were ideal. The highest share of mandatory items was declared by ergonomists, and the lowest by gerontologists.
Conclusion: Structural components of park design suitable for the elderly are mandatory or essential in most cases studied, and only a few were identified as ideal. Therefore, the design of elderly-friendly parks requires attention to various aspects, including accessibility, safety, and comfort.

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Type of Study: Research | Subject: Environmental Ergonomics
Received: 2025/03/10 | Accepted: 2025/05/31 | ePublished: 2025/05/31

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