Third Places for Older Adults' Social Engagement: A Scoping Review and Research Agenda.

Masaaki Sugiyama; Hing-Wah Chau; Takumi Abe; Yusuke Kato; Elmira Jamei; Piret Veeroja; Kazuhiko Mori; Takemi Sugiyama
Abstract
Neighborhood places that facilitate older residents to meet and interact (third places) receive an increasing research interest as studies have consistently shown the benefits of social engagement for older adults' health. This scoping review synthesized the findings of studies examining the role of third places in older adults' social engagement.Searching 5 databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science) in October 2021, this study identified quantitative and qualitative studies that examined the relationships between third places and social engagement (interaction and network) among older adults.A total of 32 studies (12 quantitative and 20 qualitative studies) met the eligibility criteria. These studies examined 4 types of third place, namely, community facilities, local businesses, open/green spaces, and transition spaces. More than two thirds of the studies reviewed found that access to community facilities, local businesses, and open/green spaces were related to older adults' social interaction. For the relationships between third places and social networks, the importance of accessible local businesses and the quality of open/green spaces was supported by fewer studies.The findings of quantitative and qualitative studies suggest that local places that are convenient to visit and comfortable to stay in for older adults are likely to enhance their social interaction and network. However, more specific evidence is needed to inform the planning and design of third places. The review discusses future research topics that address the gaps identified in the current literature.
Journal THE GERONTOLOGIST
ISSN 1758-5341
Published 24 Aug 2023
Volume 63
Issue 7
Pages 1149 1161 1149-1161
DOI 10.1093/geront/gnac180
Type Review | Journal Article
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