It has been confirmed that there are more than 2,000 senior community centers installed in apartment complexes in Seoul.
According to the Seoul Institute on August 30, as of January last year, there were 3,596 senior community centers in Seoul. Of these, at least 2,348 centers, accounting for 65.6%, are located within apartment complexes.
The average years since establishment for senior centers in apartments was found to be 20.5 years, with an average capacity of 32.9 people. For all senior centers in Seoul, the averages were 23.1 years and 35.5 people, respectively.
In a survey conducted by the Seoul Institute of 500 residents aged 60 or older living in apartments, 89.6% of respondents said they knew the location of the senior center, but only 31.2% actually used it.
Usage rates were higher among women, those aged 75 or older, and those who actively interact with their neighbors. In contrast, the relatively younger elderly group aged 60 to 64 was found not to use the senior centers at all.
Among the 156 respondents who said they used the senior center in their apartment complex (multiple responses allowed), 78.8% said it was "to interact with close friends or neighbors."
Among the 292 elderly apartment residents who did not use the senior center (multiple responses allowed), 76.7% said they "did not feel the need to use it." Additionally, 24.7% said they "prefer staying at home rather than going to the senior center," 13.0% said they "feel uncomfortable socializing with others who use the center," and 6.2% said they are "too busy or still feel young."
The Seoul Institute stated, "It is necessary to address issues such as avoidance of facilities, the target beneficiaries and cost burden, and the complexities of installation and operation, by simultaneously implementing policy alternatives such as introducing a so-called age-friendly apartment certification system and developing combined general housing and senior welfare housing." The Institute added, "If future services and programs at senior centers within apartment complexes are diversified and specialized, focusing on physical activities, health management, hobbies and leisure, and daily living support, the usage rate of these centers could be increased."
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