유대감의 감성 특성을 활용한 노령층과 유기동물의 동거 공간 연구

Abstract

(Background and Purpose) Owing to radical changes in society and aging trends, the features of family members have diversified. In the case of companion animals, newly established statistical items and terms have increased rapidly, indicating a high interest in companion animals. However, as an increasing number of people ignore the dignity of life and judge it based on the concept of a single property and its value, abandoned animals have become a social problem. The elderly often feel lonely and alienated and lose their role due to the physical changes caused by aging and the resulting psychological and social issues that affect discrimination and suicide rates. This study presents a space for continuous management and maintenance through two objects with common characteristics of the socially vulnerable: the social role of the lost elderly and a sense of purpose, neglect, and alienation. It also aims to present a formative element of spatial research in which cohabitation space can maximize reciprocal utility. (Method) To achieve the objectives of this study, a theoretical review is conducted based on previous research on the current situation and shared social positions of the two entities. Second, by exploring the theory of the Baby Schema and previous research, we show that the Baby Schema, which refers to how humans perceive infantile features as cute, applies to human faces and animals. Moreover, it elicits even stronger emotional responses in older adults. Third, an analysis of the physical characteristics of aging and the behavioral traits of animals is conducted to propose a cohabitation space design incorporating the spatial components derived from this analysis. (Results) After analyzing the spatial planning requirements for older adults and the behavioral characteristics of abandoned animals, we present a comprehensive spatial configuration through the concept of "territoriality." In addition, we identify key elements that ensure the convenience of both entities, including suitable pathways for movement, facility placement convenience, spaces that guarantee the safety of both the elderly and abandoned animals, ventilation through comfort in the environment, areas for social reintegration, and spaces that facilitate interaction and communication through active accessibility. (Conclusion) The results of this study can be used as primary data to suggest developmental directions while presenting the requirements and characteristics of cohabitation space plans that can maximize their utility through the vicinity between abandoned animals and older adults in the future.