| Title |
Assessing the Residential Suitability of Elderly Housing in Coastal Island Communities from the Fall Prevention Perspective |
| Authors |
이연숙(Lee, Yeun-Sook) ; 조승연(Cho, Seung-Yeon) ; 전은정(Jun, Eun-Jung) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2025.41.8.61 |
| Keywords |
Island Coastal Elderly Housing; Fall Prevention; Housing Suitability; Residential Condition Assessment; User Benefit Criteria Theory |
| Abstract |
South Korea faces growing challenges from population decline, an aging society, and industrial restructuring, contributing to the rise of
declining and vanishing areas. In rural coastal regions with limited healthcare access, elderly residents often live in inadequate housing,
exacerbating daily difficulties?especially the risk of falls. This study examines the residential suitability of elderly housing in isolated coastal
villages, focusing on fall prevention using the User Benefit Criteria Theory. Data were collected from 30 elderly households on
Yeonpyeongdo, randomly selected with support from the Urban Regeneration Support Center and the Residents’ Association. In June 2023,
individual interviews, housing assessments, and structured surveys were conducted using a fall prevention checklist. Results showed that 66%
had joint-related illnesses, 43% had spinal conditions, and all households faced fall hazards, such as raised thresholds, slippery floors, and
lack of handrails. Priority needs involved handrail installation and household item reorganization. According to the theory, Behavioral
Facilitation was the most significant factor (61%), followed by Perceptual (22%) and Physiological Maintenance (15%). These findings suggest
that current housing restricts mobility and functioning while neglecting cognitive and hygienic support. Tailored interventions should address
both aging-related decline and the unique conditions of coastal areas, providing a theoretical basis for user-centered housing policy and
integrated care strategies. |