Quality Open Space Experiences for the Visually Impaired
Name
11482_2019_9758_ReferencePDF.pdf
Size
1.66 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
70483aa518014d5b6ea23402df9d67e4
Author(s)
Siu, Kin W M
Xiao, Jia X
Wong, Yi L
Date Issued
August 4, 2019
Publisher
Springer Netherlands
Version
Author's final manuscript
Abstract
Abstract
Researchers, economists and policymakers have made tremendous efforts to improve the quality of life (QOL) in many cities. While many researchers point out that open space is particularly essential in providing recreation and leisure zones in densely populated areas, it is challenging to enable high quality open space experiences (QOSE) for people with disabilities, especially those with sensory disabilities. Using open spaces in Hong Kong as a case study, this paper defines QOSE for visual disabilities. The study uses quantitative and qualitative research methods such as interviews, questionnaires and observations. The features of current open space experiences and factors affecting QOSE are identified. The results show that the implementation status of QOL improvement strategies stated by policymakers is quite different to visually impaired persons’ perspectives. This study further proposes 11 QOSE indictors suitable for the challenges, policy goals and strategies. The findings of this study can provide guidance for researchers, designers and policymakers as they consider how to achieve QOSE for visually impaired persons in high-density living environments.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Architecture
Terms of Use
Article is made available in accordance with the publisher's policy and may be subject to US copyright law. Please refer to the publisher's site for terms of use.
Persistent DSpace Link
DOI of Published Version
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11482-019-09758-5
