The effect of place attachment and greenway attributes on well-being among older adults in Taiwan

This study examined the effects of the behavioral, environmental, and intermediate attributes of greenways on the well-being of older adults, especially regarding how place attachment can serve as an intermediate factor in achieving aging in place. Data were obtained from environmental evaluations and user surveys of 769 participants aged 55 and older throughout all 13 greenways of the Taichung Urban Greenway system. The regression models revealed that greenway quality, perceived pollution, activities on the greenways, neighborhood social capital, and place attachment had significant effects on well-being. Moreover, the greenness of the greenways had a more positive impact on the well-being of those older people who experienced greater levels of place attachment. The strengths of the current study include a focus on the synergistic effects that a greenway, place attachment, and neighborhood social capital have on well-being, thereby contributing to aging in place for the growing older population.