Restorative Urbanism and the Social Dynamics of Biophilic Design in Aging Urban Centers

Author(s):Elena Rodriguez, Simon Vance, Aris Theron, Naomi Oka

Affiliation: Department of Environmental Planning, University of Groningen, Netherlands

Page No: 49-53

Volume issue & Publishing Year: Volume 3, Issue 2, Feb 2026

published on: 2026/02/27

Journal: International Journal of Advanced Multidisciplinary Application.(IJAMA)

ISSN NO: 3048-9350

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18816179

Download PDF

Article Indexing:

Abstract:
As global urbanization reaches unprecedented density in 2026, the structural disconnect between residents and natural systems has created "socially sterile" environments. Biophilic Urbanism—the integration of intentional natural systems into the built fabric—offers a framework for social restoration. This paper investigates the impact of "Living Infrastructure" and "Pocket Forests" on the social cohesion and mobility of elderly residents in high-density metropolitan zones. Through a multi-site ethnographic study and spatial mapping across four distinct climates, we analyze how nature-integrated design facilitates intergenerational interaction and reduces social isolation. Our findings indicate that biophilic "Green Plazas" increase the duration of outdoor social activities by 35% among residents over the age of 65. The study concludes that biophilic design is a vital tool for urban resilience, transforming passive transit zones into active, socially restorative communal spaces.

Keywords: Biophilic Urbanism, Urban Planning, Social Cohesion, Gerontology, Green Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities, Nature-Based Solutions, Urban Sociology

Reference:

  • [1] E. Rodriguez, "Thermal Equity and the Distribution of Urban Canopy," Journal of Environmental Planning, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 45-58, Jan. 2024.
  • [2] S. Vance, "Biophilic Sociality: How Green Spaces Mediate Human Connection," Urban Sociology Review, vol. 15, pp. 112-130, Nov. 2025.
  • [3] A. Theron, "Micro-Forests as Thermal Refuges in Semi-Arid Climates," African Journal of Urban Ecology, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 88-102, Sept. 2025.
  • [4] N. Okafor, "Intergenerational Benefits of Urban Agriculture in Japan," Asian Social Policy Journal, vol. 18, pp. 201-215, Feb. 2026.
  • [5] R. Kaplan, "The Restorative Benefits of Nature: Toward an Integrative Framework," Journal of Environmental Psychology, vol. 15, no. 3, pp. 169-182, 1995 (Classic Citation).
  • [6] J. Miller, "Sponge Cities and the Mitigation of Heat Islands," Sustainable Infrastructure Reports, vol. 12, pp. 45-60, Oct. 2025.
  • [7] L. Chen, "GIS Mapping of Pedestrian Stay-Time in Green Corridors," Digital Urbanism Quarterly, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 30-44, Jan. 2026.
  • [8] K. Williams, "Loneliness and the Built Environment: A 2026 Perspective," Public Health and Geography, vol. 28, pp. 150-165, Dec. 2025.
  • [9] M. Sato, "Cognitive Navigation and Sensory Landmarks in Aging Populations," Gerontology and Design, vol. 14, pp. 67-82, Nov. 2025.