Acessibilidade de idosos em espaços livres urbanos: estudo de caso da Praça Nossa Senhora da Conceição em Macapá-AP

Abstract

Squares come in countless shapes and sizes, an open physical space integrated into the urban fabric. They have historical value and importance, as well as a continuous participation in the lives of people and cities. However, accessibility in these spaces becomes questionable due to physical obstacles, lack of adequate structure and inclusive projects. These are challenges that elderly people need to face every day. In this context, the study of Praça Nossa Senhora da Conceição brings a broad narrative, when we reference the theme of accessibility. The study space is considered a pleasant environment for family use, which includes greenery, with pleasant ventilation, with a vast diversity of tree species, a large area of approximately 4,375m². In this way, the present work aims to understand the accessibility of elderly people within urban open spaces, and analyze the studied area by surveying the components of the square, including lighting, afforestation, furniture, accessibility and its possible impacts on elderly people's lives, based on the construction of a quantitative and qualitative analysis of these components, through on-site observations. The research resulted in the need for equitable planning for the study area, with a design that allows accessibility and inclusion of the elderly. It is seen as necessary to install more access ramps, paths with handrails, more ergonomic benches with back support, adequate lighting, specific areas for practicing physical activities, installation of accessible bathrooms and drinking fountains, and adequate signage.