The influence of residential outdoor space characteristics on elderly-children interaction activities under the background of intergenerational childcare: a case study in Suzhou, China

Under China’s aging population and three-child policy, intergenerational childcare is widespread. Residential outdoor spaces, vital for elderly and children’s daily activities, influence their interactions. Taking 27 plots within three residential areas of Suzhou Industrial Park as sample sites, this study employed the SOPARC method to conduct behavioural observations of activities for Elderly-Children groups, evaluated outdoor space characteristics through six dimensions and 20 indicators, and further analysed the correlation between Elderly-Children interactive activities and residential outdoor space characteristics. The results show that visual openness and fitness facilities have a significant impact on the activity density of the elderly and children. Spatial scale suitability, children’s activity facilities, and interactivity of facilities for the elderly and children can significantly improve the activity diversity of both the elderly and children. In addition, fitness facilities can promote the activity diversity of the elderly, while traffic safety and plant diversity can enhance the activity diversity of children. This study is conducive to promoting the construction of more humanised and inclusive outdoor public spaces in residential areas, and provides theoretical support and practical guidance for promoting intergenerational integration and responding to the national strategy of building Elderly-friendly and Child-friendly cities.