Gardens as a Source of Vitality for the Aging Population of Mumbai and Its Suburbs

Several studies have emphasized the benefits of having access to inclusive public open spaces for various age groups. However, there exists a knowledge gap in understanding the needs of senior citizen users of urban Indian recreational open spaces and the impact on their behavior with special reference to design and amenities provision (Subramanian and Jana, Urban For Urban Green 35:115–128, 2018). This chapter tries to fill this gap. Little research has been devoted to exploring the passive cooling potential of urban greenery in India (Imam and Banerjee, Ambio 45:442–457. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-015-0763-4 , 2016), and the senior citizen population is estimated to rise by 12.4% more by 2026 (Jeyalakshmi et al., Situation analysis of the elderly in India. Central Statistics Office, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India document, p. i, 2011). Hence, research in these areas has become essential. This study attempts to understand how open spaces like gardens contribute to the physical and mental well-being of the senior citizen population of Mumbai and its suburbs like Thane. The methods used to conduct the study are interviews and participant observation. The study shows that having more gardens helps in multiple ways, like allowing senior citizens to interact with people from different classes and castes. Groups are formed in the garden and act as a support group in old age. The exercise habits of the senior citizen population also improve due to having a garden near their home. A study conducted in Tokyo in two cities has given a similar conclusion. They pointed out that the survival percentage was greater for subjects with hydra space near the residence for strolls. The study also highlights that open green spaces create a positive attitude toward one’s community and positively influence senior citizens’ longevity (Takano et al., Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health 56:913–918, 2002). The garden also compensates for the lack of space at home. This research paper aims to show the importance of gardens in senior citizens’ lives. It shows how gardens give older adults hope and a place to relax and grow. Thus, the presence of gardens helps the senior citizens’ physical and mental well-being. The study is useful for urban studies and policymakers, encouraging them to provide more free space for better health of society. This chapter also concludes that the more free and greener the space, the healthier the senior citizen population and the peace in general.