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Topic

Investigating the Impact of Green Spaces on the Well-being of Older Chinese Immigrants

Social Dimensions of Health

Date & location

• Thursday, July 3, 2025

• 10:00 A.M.

• David Turpin Building, Room B215

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Denise Cloutier, Department of Geography, ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ (Co-Supervisor)

• Dr. Fred Chou, Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies, UVic (Co-Supervisor)

• Dr. Reuben Rose-Redwood, Department of Geography, UVic (Member) 

External Examiner

• Dr. Catherine Costigan, Department of Psychology, UVic 

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Hua Lin, School of Languages, Linguistics and Cultures, UVic

   

Abstract

This thesis investigates the critical role that urban green spaces play in shaping the physical, mental, and social well-being of older Chinese immigrants in Victoria, British Columbia. Utilizing a qualitative approach anchored in semi-structured interviews with 16 Mandarin-speaking older Chinese immigrants, this study explores how their experiences and perceptions of green spaces are shaped by intersecting factors such as cultural practices, language barriers, gender roles, transportation accessibility, and urban infrastructure. Findings reveal that green spaces significantly contribute to participants’ overall health and quality of life, serving as essential venues for physical exercise, mental relaxation, cultural continuity, and intergenerational bonding.

However, the study identifies substantial barriers—including inadequate public transportation, language proficiency issues, safety concerns, limited culturally relevant programming, and age-inappropriate infrastructure—that restrict equitable access and meaningful participation. The thesis provides targeted policy recommendations aimed at municipal planners and decision-makers to enhance inclusivity for older Chinese immigrants in urban green spaces. These include improving transportation networks, providing multilingual signage and culturally sensitive programming, implementing age-friendly park designs, supporting urban gardening initiatives, and fostering intergenerational integration through community-driven programs.

By highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities experienced by older Chinese immigrants, this research contributes valuable insights into how culturally inclusive green spaces can promote health equity, social inclusion, and community resilience in diverse urban settings.