PREFACE
The topic is Limited Social Spaces in Residential Areas. This is an issue that no one addresses often, an issue that is overlooked. Similarly, when it comes to the individuals we consider, we prioritise the younger generation. What about the elderly? We tend to forget that they need special aids, care and company. So in this project, as a group, we will focus on this creating a solution for this problem with more focus towards the older generation - ages 60 and above. This is a problem faced worldwide, so we will be using Singapore as an example.
1.1
Limited Social Space
Singapore, being a small island is scarce in land. Thus, the area has to be used wisely, resulting to the limited social spaces in the residential areas. This is a major and common problem in the development of Singapore. To meet the current needs and aspects of our citizens, Singapore has to optimise its land resources. Hence, putting our heads together, we will conceptualise a project to solve the problem.
By understanding the common problems of these areas, it will notably aid us in the execution of this issue. Customarily, we understand that when there’s a restricted amount of social space, there are fewer social activities/interaction/movements amongst the neighbourhood, resulting in the rapid usage of the social media. However, the common group of people who uses these social spaces are the elderly. Therefore, we have to meet their needs by making the areas elderly-friendly.
Today, the general public prioritise themselves, therefore not meeting the obligatory requirements that cater to all age groups. It is encouraged, for citizens themselves, to take their own initiative to understand and recognise the problems and patterns faced in Singapore to help to make a change. By doing so, it is possible for us to change the culture for the better and make Singapore more economically liveable . The future is in our hands.
1.2
Condition of Region in Singapore
There are five types of region in Singapore :
Source : Screen shoot from Wikipedia
1. Central Area
Sources : www.google.com
This area is known for being the busiest and most commercial area, which includes 335,400 residential housing ranging from HDB flats to more exclusive private house for those who can afford them. There are also 1000 hectares of green spaces (parks, gardens and other recreational spaces), Singapore's prime shopping and entertainment facilities, medical clinics, international school, several country clubs, a delicious food court and links to the transportation network. Some divisions are home to plenty of expatriates, too.
Public transport and roads are very busy during peak hours.
Some of the areas :
Bishan, Bukit Timah, Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Little India, Farrer Park, Marina Bay, Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands, Newton, Novena, Orchard Road, Dhoby Ghaut, Pasir Panjang, Potong Pasir, Bencoolen, Bras Basah, Bugis, Queenstown, Raffles Place, Harbour Front, Tiong Bahru, Bukit Merah, Toa Payoh
2. East Area
Sources : www.google.com
This area has a coastal lifestyle where beach facilities and many parks are available. The Changi International Airport is located in here. This area is a mixture of both contemporary and modern aspects in the neighbourhood. Both HDB flats and landed properties are available and are less expensive than those located within heart of the city. The streets are narrow and lined with angsana and palm trees, and the coast-hugging Marine Parade and East Coast Park are ideal for weekend picnics.
The area has a diverse population but many residents work in airline-related industries. There is excellent access to amenities, restaurants, schools and shops.
Having a car is a definite advantage, as access to public transport is not as good here as it is in other areas.
Some of the areas :
Bedok, Tanah Merah, Changi, East Coast, Eunos, Geylang, Katong, Kallang, Tanjong Rhu, Lavender, Boon Keng, Pasir Ris, Paya Lebar, Tampines (Simei).
3. North Area
Sources : www.google.com
This self-sufficient green area, with estate-type living conditions, is a home to many American expat families, due to the presence of the Singapore American School. The area may be considered far from the city, but in all actuality, it is only about 12 miles (18km) away and is connected by the CTE highway. We can actually see Malaysia from the Woodlands district and there is a causeway bridge that connects the two countries. The area is lush with greenery and features golf courses, several shopping facilities that specifically cater to expat needs, plant nurseries and reservoirs
The area is relatively far from the city, and transport can be challenging due to traffic.
Some of the areas :
Central Catchment Nature Reserve, Kranji, Lentor, Lim Chu Kang, Neo Tiew, Sungei Gedong, Sembawang, Canberra, Woodlands, Yishun, Chong Pang
4. North East Area
Sources : www.google.com
This is an area with a large population of Teochew-speaking Chinese in early Singapore. This district enjoys great connectivity to the city and other parts of Singapore (thanks to the MRT network and public buses). Serangoon has become the de facto hub of the Northeast due to it being the most convenient place to reach, via two MRT lines serving it and a large integrated bus interchange. It has a large shopping mall called NEX, and a short distance away is a heartland where neighbourhood shops still operate to serve the populace around the area.
5. West Area
Sources : www.google.com
The neighbourhoods in this greater space vary widely but are generally densely populated and have excellent facilities.
The Bukit Timah district is centred on education, and is made up of renowned institutions, lush suburban shopping facilities and rich foliage. On the other hand, Jurong has large industrial and residential areas, landscape parks and a golf course.
The world famous Singapore Zoo and Jurong Bird Park are also located here – lush greenery is in no short supply, with a few farms situated in Lim Chu Kang. Rentals are more affordable and this is a great area for families, with home-style properties and gardens
The area around the docks can be noisy
Some of the areas :
Boon Lay, Bukit Batok, Hill View, Bukit Panjang, Choa Chu Kang, Clementi, Jurong East, Lake, River, Port, Jurong West, Boon Lay, Pioneer, Joo Koon, Promenade
1.3
Who this problem affects and why:
When it comes to the lack or restricted size of social spaces, a lot of people are affected, even though it may not seem so at first sight. These areas in the residential areas give the people a sense of belonging. Not only this, but also the fact that communication is enhanced through these spaces.
So the target people are the adults. The children aren’t affected as much as they can easily adapt to any space and feel comfortable. For example, suppose you confine a child to a small room, as long as they have something there that entertains them, they will be fine. However, the same does not apply for the adults. When they are confined to a small space over a long period of time, they start to develop social problems and can even develop mental issues.
A term “new town blues” has been coined recently due to this problem. This term is used to explain the feeling of isolation of that people feel when the are new to an area (they feel separated from the rest of the population, their friends and family).
Now amongst the adults, it is the elderly (ages 60 above) that are the most affected. Why? Individuals of this age group face a lot of health problems. Their movement is affected due to old age. So, light exercise is very important for them. When there is a compromise of these residential social spaces, it takes a toll on the elderly a lot.
What type of problems are faced?
There are numerous problems created due to the lack of residential social spaces.
They range from isolation to mental health.
In today’s world, as social media is on the rise, verbal communication is decreasing. Social spaces are the only places that individuals can actually be ’social’ without the social media. Also, these spaces can contribute to the physical exercise and mental well being.
Let’s take a look at the elderly.
These individuals, as mentioned earlier face a lot of health issues. The social spaces provide them with areas for exercise and even fresh air. Without them, the elderly will isolate themselves to four walls. This does them no good at all. They will develop mental problems like depression. Why? Because they will be shut out from the outside world. Their communication with others will drop. At their age, the elderly require love and care. When those who are taking care of them are working 24/7, what happens to these individuals? The elderly need these spaces more than anyone else. They need it for their physical and mental well being.
