Determination of the Current Situation of Konya Ihlamur Park According to the Physical Activity and Social Interaction Actions of Elderly Individuals, which are the Reasons for Park Use

Parks and public open green spaces are open spaces for all segments of the society. These places, which are important recreation areas, enable the elderly to renew themselves, to breathe a little in the open air, to be alone with nature even in the city. These opportunities provided by parks are utilised by elderly users. Today, the population of elderly individuals is increasing day by day due to the slowdown in population growth rate. In this study, it is aimed to determine the park usage purposes of the elderly and important park features that encourage physical activity and social interaction. Within the scope of the research, 96 elderly individuals were interviewed with 96 elderly individuals within the scope of face-to-face survey study by going to the park at random times on weekdays and weekends on a voluntary basis by using the questionnaire form prepared for revealing the user profile of individuals aged 40 and over in Ihlamur Park in Selçuklu District, determining the preference times of the park, determining the duration and times of park use, determining the reasons for park preference and selection, and evaluating park user satisfaction and expectations. The findings show that parks are an important social area for elderly people in the same age group with their seating areas, walking paths, simple fitness equipment, as they create a gathering area for elderly people in the same age group, and therefore, parks require careful planning and implementation in the design, management and use of parks and should contain a large amount of space for socialization. In line with these findings, it will be possible for elderly people to benefit more from parks and have a more enjoyable time with landscape designs that provide socialization opportunities for elderly users. Thus, elderly individuals will be able to develop a sense of belonging for the park.