Living in the place: a study of the impact ofliving environment on the lifestyle of elderly in Hong Kong

Abstract

Housing managers and researchers in the related field are interested in the study of lifestyle as a contributing factor to understanding the management of the housing estates in Hong Kong. Traditional studies in housing management are related to enhancement of building functions and design, improvement of service delivery and introduction to a variety of quality systems. However, these studies were limited by not acknowledging the key to housing management: the residents. Instead of a client-owner relationship, residents should be treated as part of the living environment of the housing estate, as their behavior is deeply embedded in the living place. They are “living in the place”, which is a type of lifestyle choices that is fostered by the living environment, and it is particularly the case for elderly residents.

This study aims to fill the gap in the literature by using a sample of 300 elderly residents residing in two public rental housing estates in Hong Kong, namely Ming Wah Dai Ha and Oi Tung Estate. In order to examine the relationship between frequency of participating in activities that take place at home, at estate common area, or activities that are organized by the management offices, and the lifestyle of elderly residents, this study uses descriptive statistics and comparisons by tables, with primary data collected in questionnaires and interviews.

The survey results indicate that certain extent of correlations exists between the lifestyle of elderly residents and the living environment including living spaces, facilities, and the management of the estate itself. Different attributes of the housing estates lead to different behavioral patterns of the elderly residents. Lastly, recommendations will be given as to reinforce the social network established in the living environment and to promote “new” lifestyles through housing management practices.