Work

Forest- and Nature-Based Recreation for Older Adults: Preferences, Well-Being, and the Need for Inclusive Planning

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study provides user-centered insights into how inclusive forest design can support the physical, emotional, and social well-being of older adults. It operationalizes universal design principles in natural settings and confirms their relevance through empirical evidence. With the acceleration of global population aging, adapting forest recreation environments to meet the specific needs of older adults is increasingly urgent. This study investigates how infrastructure influences both participation and emotional well-being among older visitors to forest recreation areas. Data were collected from 446 participants aged 65 and older, using a structured survey distributed through in-person contact and digital snowball sampling. Participants reported their infrastructure preferences and their emotional responses related to forest visits. The findings show that older adults highly value site cleanliness, shaded seating, accessible restrooms, and clear signage. Expectations varied significantly according to health status, age group, and visitation frequency. Emotional well-being was positively associated with both comfort and visit frequency. These results demonstrate how inclusive infrastructure plays a vital role in supporting older adults’ access to and enjoyment of forest environments. The study affirms that universally designed forests not only reduce barriers but also promote psychological health and active aging, contributing to developing more equitable and sustainable nature-based recreation areas.

Source: Forests

DOI: 10.3390/f16081213

Authors: Yaara Spiegel, Noga Collins-Kreiner, Eran Ketter

Institutions: University of Haifa, Kinneret College on the Sea of Galilee

Language: English

Topic: Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management

Subfield: Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities, Life on land, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137