Reconsidering restorative environments for older adults: How the social context shapes restorative experiences

In this rapidly ageing world, restorative experiences of older adults appear to be a relatively understudied yet critical area of research. Earlier studies showed that age-related changes in physical abilities, sensitivity to environmental stressors, and attention fatigue can impact restorative experiences. In this study, we argue that changing social needs may also play a pivotal role in shaping restorative experiences for older adults. Therefore, a convergent mixed-method study was conducted in the Netherlands to explore the role of the social context in older adults' restorative experiences, focusing on three factors of the social context: the presence of others, the role of social interactions and accompaniment.
Forty semi-structured interviews and questionnaires (Mage = 79,9 years) were conducted to gather insights into older adults' restorative experiences within their preferred restorative environment. Findings indicate that older adults predominantly choose social environments that support social interaction for restorative experiences, challenging the idea that restorative experiences are a solitary activity. Furthermore, the results suggest that environments with a few others present enhance feelings of safety and increase compatibility and fascination in the environment, enhancing restorative experiences. Lastly, while accompaniment to restorative environments is not typically required for practical reasons, engaging in tranquil activities with a close companion can enhance the restorative experience for older adults.
These findings underline the importance of the social context in restorative experiences of older adults and call for a refinement of the conventional restoration narrative. Results demonstrate that restorative experiences are not solely determined by an individual's interaction with the environment; they occur within a broader social context. Incorporating the social context in future restoration research will allow for a more comprehensive understanding of restorative experiences. These insights can inform future research, policy making and urban design, promoting the development of inclusive, health-promoting environments that support the mental health of older adults.