Spatial preferences and characteristics of physical activity areas among senior citizens in urban community parks of Nanchang, China

Abstract

With an ageing population, promoting physical activity in community parks is crucial for healthy urban living. This study examines the spatial preferences and environmental determinants of physical activity among senior citizens in four high-density community parks in Nanchang, China. Using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities, 32 full-day observations were conducted across 121 micro-spatial units. Global Moran’s I tests confirmed that sedentary behaviour exhibited significant spatial clustering (I = 0.137, Z = 2.65, p < 0.01), while moderate-to-vigorous physical activity followed a random distribution pattern. Principal Component Analysis and hierarchical clustering identified 14 distinct spatial typologies. Stepwise multiple linear regression models revealed that: (1) sedentary behaviour is decisively and solely driven by the provision of rest facilities (PC4, β = 0.310, p = 0.001), outweighing landscape aesthetics or spatial enclosure; and (2) no significant environmental predictors were identified for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, suggesting it is more influenced by social organisation than micro-environmental features. These findings offer a fine-grained spatial diagnostic framework, advocating for a "functionality-first" design strategy. The study suggests that precision placement of rest nodes, rather than general landscape enhancement, is critical for supporting the stationary engagement and diverse behavioural rhythms (e.g., stationary socialisers, casual movers and vigorous participants) of ageing populations.