11:30 AM - 11:45 AM
[HTT15-09] The Role of Third Places in Tsukuba's R8 Districts Among Aging Demographics
★Invited Papers
Keywords:Revitalization Regions, Third Places, Retirement
Introduction
In recent years, Japan has seen an increase in its aging demographic, accompanied by a parallel trend of urbanization drawing young individuals to city centres, thus accentuating the demographic shift in peripheral areas [1]. Tsukuba City captures this trend with eight districts, collectively known as R8 (Region 8), experiencing a shift following the centralization of resources around Tsukuba Station 35 years ago, rendering the R8 districts relatively peripheral. In response, community-driven efforts towards revitalization have emerged, supported by local organizations. Recognizing the potential of "third places," as key drivers of revitalization, this research aims to explore their role within the R8 districts. Third places, distinct from the home (first place) and workplace (second place), provide public opportunities crucial for communities [2]. By mapping the demographics and role of third places in the R8 regions, this study aims to reveal opportunities for leveraging third places in enhancing the well-being and vitality of Tsukuba's aging population.
Methodology
To assess the distribution of the aging population within the R8 districts, a spatial analysis approach was employed. The methodology involved the acquisition of population data from Tsukuba city [3], specifically focusing on demographic information pertaining to age groups. Utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS), the demographic dataset was then mapped onto the administrative boundaries of each region within Tsukuba. Moreover, semi-structured interviews with members of three R8 revitalization councils was conducted to collect perspectives on the role of third places in their region’s revitalization.
Results
Population Distribution between R8 and Populated Areas
Comparative analysis between R8 and regions with populations exceeding 3000 inhabitants revealed notable demographic disparities (Fig. 1). A comparison of the proportion of individuals aged over 65 highlighted a significant difference (t(15) = 9.40, p < 0.01), indicating a higher prevalence of elderly residents within the R8 districts.
Fig. 1 Population Distribution in populated areas and R8 of Tsukuba City
Mapping of Population Distribution in Tsukuba
Spatial mapping of population distribution across Tsukuba city further unveiled distinct patterns (Fig. 2). Population concentrations were observed within the R8 regions and the Tsukuba city centre. However, the city centre exhibits a notably lower percentage of individuals aged over 65 compared to the surrounding R8 districts.
Fig. 2 Total Population and Percentage over-65 per District
The Role of Third Places from Pre-Retirement to Post-Retirement
Qualitative insights from interviews with R8 revitalization council members revealed the dual role of third places in post-retirement life and regional revitalization (Fig. 3). Participants described their fulfilment with the evolution of third places from solely social hubs to opportunities for active contribution to regional interactions and revitalization.
Fig. 3 Changing Role of Third Places during Post-Retirement
Conclusion
The R8 regions, characterized by their higher proportion of elderly residents and community networks, present ideal focal points for investigating the relationship between third places and retirees. By identifying and nurturing third places as vibrant social hubs, these regions can harness the collective wisdom and social capital of retirees, thereby contributing to the sustainable revitalization of local communities.
References
[1] Kojima G, Iliffe S, Taniguchi Y, Shimada H, Rakugi H, Walters K. Prevalence of frailty in Japan: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of epidemiology. 2017;27(8):347-53.
[2] Oldenburg R, Brissett D. The third place. Qualitative sociology. 1982 Dec;5(4):265-84.
[3] City of Tsukuba. (2023). April 1, 2023 Population Statistics by Age Group. Retrieved from https://www.city.tsukuba.lg.jp/soshikikarasagasu/shimimbushimimmadoguchika/
In recent years, Japan has seen an increase in its aging demographic, accompanied by a parallel trend of urbanization drawing young individuals to city centres, thus accentuating the demographic shift in peripheral areas [1]. Tsukuba City captures this trend with eight districts, collectively known as R8 (Region 8), experiencing a shift following the centralization of resources around Tsukuba Station 35 years ago, rendering the R8 districts relatively peripheral. In response, community-driven efforts towards revitalization have emerged, supported by local organizations. Recognizing the potential of "third places," as key drivers of revitalization, this research aims to explore their role within the R8 districts. Third places, distinct from the home (first place) and workplace (second place), provide public opportunities crucial for communities [2]. By mapping the demographics and role of third places in the R8 regions, this study aims to reveal opportunities for leveraging third places in enhancing the well-being and vitality of Tsukuba's aging population.
Methodology
To assess the distribution of the aging population within the R8 districts, a spatial analysis approach was employed. The methodology involved the acquisition of population data from Tsukuba city [3], specifically focusing on demographic information pertaining to age groups. Utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS), the demographic dataset was then mapped onto the administrative boundaries of each region within Tsukuba. Moreover, semi-structured interviews with members of three R8 revitalization councils was conducted to collect perspectives on the role of third places in their region’s revitalization.
Results
Population Distribution between R8 and Populated Areas
Comparative analysis between R8 and regions with populations exceeding 3000 inhabitants revealed notable demographic disparities (Fig. 1). A comparison of the proportion of individuals aged over 65 highlighted a significant difference (t(15) = 9.40, p < 0.01), indicating a higher prevalence of elderly residents within the R8 districts.
Fig. 1 Population Distribution in populated areas and R8 of Tsukuba City
Mapping of Population Distribution in Tsukuba
Spatial mapping of population distribution across Tsukuba city further unveiled distinct patterns (Fig. 2). Population concentrations were observed within the R8 regions and the Tsukuba city centre. However, the city centre exhibits a notably lower percentage of individuals aged over 65 compared to the surrounding R8 districts.
Fig. 2 Total Population and Percentage over-65 per District
The Role of Third Places from Pre-Retirement to Post-Retirement
Qualitative insights from interviews with R8 revitalization council members revealed the dual role of third places in post-retirement life and regional revitalization (Fig. 3). Participants described their fulfilment with the evolution of third places from solely social hubs to opportunities for active contribution to regional interactions and revitalization.
Fig. 3 Changing Role of Third Places during Post-Retirement
Conclusion
The R8 regions, characterized by their higher proportion of elderly residents and community networks, present ideal focal points for investigating the relationship between third places and retirees. By identifying and nurturing third places as vibrant social hubs, these regions can harness the collective wisdom and social capital of retirees, thereby contributing to the sustainable revitalization of local communities.
References
[1] Kojima G, Iliffe S, Taniguchi Y, Shimada H, Rakugi H, Walters K. Prevalence of frailty in Japan: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of epidemiology. 2017;27(8):347-53.
[2] Oldenburg R, Brissett D. The third place. Qualitative sociology. 1982 Dec;5(4):265-84.
[3] City of Tsukuba. (2023). April 1, 2023 Population Statistics by Age Group. Retrieved from https://www.city.tsukuba.lg.jp/soshikikarasagasu/shimimbushimimmadoguchika/