HOPE ENTERPRISE UNIVERSITY COLLAGE

Architectural Department
Bachelor thesis project

Mahlet Endale RAR/358/18

HOPE ENTERPRISE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

Architectural Department

Designing for socialization:creating spaces within the

community center that encourage socialization among the
elderly population

Mahlet Endale

Addis Ababa 2023

HOPE ENTERPRISE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

Architectural Department

Designing for socialization:creating spaces within the

community center that encourage socialization among the
elderly population

Mahlet Endale

Advisors
Estifanos Habtamu
Wubishet Demissie

Addis Ababa 2023

THESIS APPROVAL CERTIFICATE
The Thesis Study Architectural Department Graduated student Mahlet Endale with Student
Number RAR/351/18, has been approved with unanimity/majority of votes by the
Intermediate and has been accepted as Thesis.

Jury Members Signature

Advisors ……………....

Estifanos Habtamu

Wubishet Demissie

Member .......................

Dean of the School of Architecture

Estifanos Habtamu
Abstract
Acknowledgement
List of abbreviations
NGOs -
List of Tables
List of Figures
Content
Chapter 1 - introduction
1.1 Introduction ……………………………………………………………….
1.2 Problem Statement …………………………………………………….
1.3 Research objective ………………………………………………………
1.4 Research question ……………………………………………………….
1.5 Limitation of he study …………………………………………….
1.6 Significance of the study………………………………………………
1.7 hypothesis ………………………………………………………………….

Chapter 2, literature review

2.I Introduction

2.1.1. Overview of Elderly Communities in Ethiopia

2.1.1.1.Current Services and Programs Available to the Elderly in Ethiopia

2.1.2. Definition of Social Architecture

2.2 Architectural Strategy as a Tool for Developing Social Architecture

2.2.1 How Architecture Supports Socializing in Elderly Communities

 2.2.1.1 Designing for Accessibility

2.2.1.2 Designing for Visibility
 2.2.1.3 Designing for Comfort
 2.2.1.4 Designing for Mobility

2.2.2. Elements of Architecture that Facilitate Socialization

 2.2.2.1. Natural Lighting

 2.2.2.2 Furnishings
 2.2.2.3. Spaces for Interaction
 2.2.2.4 outdoor Spaces

2.2.3. Benefits of a social architecture for elders

2.2.3.1 Improved physical and emotional well being

2.2.3.2 Enhanced social relationships
2.2.3.3. Increased sense of community

2.3. Conclusion and findings

2.3.1 finding
2.3.2 conclusion

Chapter 3 , methodology

3.1. Introduction
3.2. Research Approaches
3.2.1 Methods
3.3. Finding
Chapter 1 introduction

1.1 Introduction

In the past, older people in Ethiopia were treated with dignity and respect, and they were
supported by their families, relatives, and the community. Because of a lack of family and
community support, older people without means are now forced into deep poverty. The
traditional culture of inter generational solidarity and support is also being eroded by
urbanization and "modernization." Ethiopia's rich history, culture, and tradition have all
come from its elderly. Ethiopia's elderly over the age of sixty have been increasingly isolated
in recent years as a result of a shift in perception of the value of Ethiopia's elders.

Poverty has become more severe among the elderly, making it much more difficult for them
to escape.  health, unsuitable housing, dwindling family and community support, limited
social security services, a lack of education and training opportunities, limited employment
and income-generating opportunities, and a lack of a balanced diet and shelter are some of
the factors contributing to older people's poverty.

Poverty among the elderly is also linked to educational levels, including varying levels of
literacy. Because of their inability to traverse the city, they are frequently excluded from the
labor pool, the market, and the social network. Another consequence is an inability to
effectively participate in economic, social, and political life. Older people living in poverty are
socially excluded and excluded from the decision-making process. This has an impact not
only on their income and wealth, but also on their health and personal security.

Ethiopia's elderly population is rapidly growing, and a large proportion of the population is
low-income or homeless. Because older people are consistently among the poorest in all
societies, material security is one of the most pressing concerns of old age. Many face the
same lack of physical necessities, assets, and income as other poor people, but without the
resources that younger, fitter, and more active adults do.

In Ethiopia, beggary has been observed for more than a century. Additionally, urban poverty
has contributed to the situation's worsening over recent years. In addition to the issue that
beggars face on a daily basis, the city is also negatively impacted by beggary. There are
issues that have an impact on the city's image as a whole, including damage to public
furniture, a questionable state of cleanliness, and a decline in tourism revenue.

The most weak objective gatherings addressing their necessities through beggary are
disconnected and these are the desperate older. Due to their age and illness, a large number
of elderly people are homeless and unable to work. As a result, their only means of survival
is beggary, which does not last long. Elderly marginalized people's problems should be
considered more than just material or financial; they are also difficult to bear to be excluded
or in a marginal position. Respect is a fundamental human right. The majority of elderly
people are deemed not only unworthy of charity but also of love and respect by various
behavior and habitual stereotypes. The elderly experience feelings of isolation, depression,
and dependence as a result.
1.2 , Problem statement
The elderly population in Ethiopia, especially in Addis Ababa, faces social isolation, lack of
access to healthcare and educational resources, and limited opportunities for engagement
and socialization. This has led to various health concerns and decreased quality of life for
this demographic. Moreover, younger members of the society are unable to benefit from
the knowledge and experience of the elderly due to the lack of community centers that
facilitate inter generational interaction. Therefore, there is a need to establish a community
center for the elderly that provides access to healthcare, educational resources, and social
activities, and fosters meaningful connections between different generations to improve the
well-being and inclusive of the society.

According to a report by Help Age International on aging in Ethiopia, social isolation and
limited access to healthcare and educational resources are major challenges faced by the
elderly population. The report highlights that this demographic is often excluded from
community life, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. The lack of inter
generational connections also contributes to a sense of disconnection from society,
hindering their ability to contribute to their communities and participate in civic life.

Source: Help Age International (2012). "Ageing in Ethiopia: Country Briefing Paper."

1.3 Research question

1, What is the living Conditions of elderly people in Addis Ababa?

2, What is their condition after retirement?
3, How can architecture benefit destitute elders in making them productive members?
4,How can the elders benefit the society and the society benefits the elders?

1.4 , Objectives

General objective

To form an architectural design that facilitate and support the formation of a social
architecture in elders community.

Specific objective

1, To conduct a needs assessment of the elderly population in Ethiopia, including their

preferences and requirements for community spaces and activities.
2, Architectural strategy can develop and maintain social architecture.
3, setting up a frame work design for elders community center.

1.5 Limitation of he study

1.6 Significance of the study

1.7 hypothesis
Chapter 2, literature review

2.I Introduction

2.1.1. Overview of Elderly Communities in Ethiopia

The elderly population in Ethiopia is expanding quickly as a result of rising life expectancy
and falling fertility rates. The population projected for 2021 predicts that by 2030, there will
be nearly 7 million people in this age group. Even with this expansion, elderly Ethiopians still
face many difficulties.

Social isolation is one of the main problems Ethiopia's elderly population faces. Many elderly
people find themselves living alone or without support from family members as a result of
shifting social structures and migration patterns. This may result in feelings of isolation,
depression, and anxiety, as well as make it more challenging to get access to essential
resources like healthcare and education. Additionally, there aren't many senior community
centers in Ethiopia that offer access to social activities, educational opportunities, and
medical care. As a result, elderly people may lack opportunities for socialization and
engagement, which could lower their quality of life and raise health risks.

Furthermore, Ethiopia's elderly population is gravely concerned about poverty. Many people
lack access to basic necessities like clothing, food, and shelter. For those who live alone or
without support from family members, this can be especially difficult.

Despite these obstacles, initiatives are being taken to meet the needs of Ethiopia's elderly
communities. Healthcare services and pension plans are just two of the policies and
initiatives the government has put in place to support and help the elderly. Many non-
governmental organizations are also working to enhance the inclusive and well-being of the
elderly population through projects like community centers and eldercare programme.

However, despite the substantial difficulties faced by Ethiopia's senior population, attempts
are being made to enhance their standard of living and advance their inclusion in society.

2.1.1.1.Current Services and Programs Available to the Elderly in Ethiopia

Elderly people in Ethiopia have access to a variety of services and programme, though their
ability to use them will vary based on their region and financial situation. In Ethiopia, a few
of the existing services and programme for the elderly include:

1. Healthcare services: The Ethiopian government has put in place policies and programme
to offer healthcare to the elderly, including free medical care for those who are over 70.

2. Pension plans: The government also administers pension plans for retirees who have
worked in the public sector, giving them a source of income.

3. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): There are a number of NGOs working in Ethiopia

that are dedicated to enhancing the welfare of senior citizens through programme like
community-based healthcare efforts, senior care services, and education and training
projects.
4. Family support networks: Elderly people in various areas of Ethiopia depend on family
members for assistance with their basic needs. Access to food, shelter, and other essentials
can be made possible by family support networks for elderly people.

5. Daycare facilities: Some Ethiopian villages have built senior citizen daycare facilities where
they can interact with others and take part in activities like arts and crafts, games, and
exercise programme.

6. Religious institutions: In Ethiopia, religious institutions like churches and mosques are
crucial for assisting and supporting the elderly. They frequently provide services like home
visits, counselling, and financial aid.

Even though Ethiopia's older population may benefit from these services and programme,
there is still a need to increase and improve their access to resources. There is a specific
need for more community-based programme and projects that encourage senior citizens'
socialization and engagement, as well as better access to healthcare and educational
resources.

2.1.2. Definition of Social Architecture

The design and structure of social institutions and connections with the purpose of
generating more equal, just, and sustainable societies is referred to as social architecture. It
comprises a variety of behaviors and ideas, including community organizing, participatory
design, and policy-making, with the goal of altering how people interact with one another
and with their surroundings.

Instead of taking the current social structures for granted, social architecture looks at how
they might be purposefully built to have a good impact on both individuals and
communities. This could involve establishing policies that address structural injustices and
advance greater equity and justice or constructing public areas that foster social interaction
and cohesiveness.

In general, social architecture is concerned with how we might deliberately alter social
structures and interactions in order to better serve the needs of people and communities, as
well as to advance sustainability and well-being for all.

2.2 Architectural Strategy as a Tool for Developing Social Architecture

2.2.1 How Architecture Supports Socializing in Elderly Communities

 2.2.1.1 Designing for Accessibility

2.2.1.2 Designing for Visibility

 2.2.1.3 Designing for Comfort

 2.2.1.4 Designing for Mobility

2.2.2. Elements of Architecture that Facilitate Socialization

 2.2.2.1. Natural Lighting
 2.2.2.2 Furnishings
 2.2.2.3. Spaces for Interaction
 2.2.2.4 outdoor Spaces

2.2.3. Benefits of a social architecture for elders

2.2.3.1 Improved physical and emotional well being

2.2.3.2 Enhanced social relationships
2.2.3.3. Increased sense of community

2.3. Conclusion and findings

2.3.1 findings
2.3.2 conclusion

Chapter 3 , methodology
References

Ethiopian Ministry of Health. (2020). National strategy for the care of the elderly in
Ethiopia.
https://www.moh.gov.et/ejcc/am/content/download/1226/8804/version/1/file/
National+Strategy+for+the+Care+of+the+Elderly+in+Ethiopia.pdf

HelpAge International. (2019). Ethiopia Ageing Report.

https://www.helpage.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Ethiopia-ageing-report-
2019-2.pdf

United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. (2017). Social protection for older
persons in Africa: A review of policy and legislation in East and Southern Africa.
https://www.uneca.org/sites/default/files/PublicationFiles/older-persons-policy-
and-legislation-synthesis-east-southern-africa_0.pdf

World Health Organization. (2015). World report on ageing and health.

https://www.who.int/ageing/events/world-report-2015-launch/en/

United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA). (2021). World
population ageing 2020 highlights: Living arrangements of older persons: A report on
an upcoming issue of World Population Prospects.
https://www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/publications/pdf/ageing/
WPA2020_Report_Highlights.pdf