Efficiency of the Settlement Influence by Settlement Patterns at the Zaatari Camp, Jordan

journal articl

Older adult supportive environment at home—a case study in Jordan: overall sense of control associated with home modification

IntroductionModification becomes a critical issue in a supportive home environment for older adults.MethodsThis study examined if modifications in different spaces at home are facilitated to provide a supportive environment for older adults to feel in control in a cultural context. Data was utilized using field research with a mixed method design: Structured and open-ended interviews as well as surveys using a questionnaire. The hypothesis states that older adults have a supportive environment at home when the overall sense of control is associated with home modification.ResultsThe result reveals that overall sense of control with home modification and its components: kitchen, bedroom, living room, and reception room have a significant effect on older adults’ wellbeing.DiscussionTherefore, older adult supported environment in Jordan can only take place by boosting awareness about the existing problems in the physical environment, by describing the benefits of home modification and by reducing the barriers of home modifications. This process can enhance the housing market and provide better urban policies for urban design and urban planning based on cultural heritage and values

Privacy Control as a Function of Personal Space In Single-Family Homes in Jordan

Understanding the relationship between people and the built environment requires understanding of the relationship between human behavior and physical settings. To further verify this notion, this study attempts to investigate privacy control as an effect of personal space expressed by quality and quantity of bedroom space in single-family homes. Face-to-face structured interviews were conducted to elicit the data. The location of the study was Daheyat Al--Ferdous community, Fuhais, Jordan. Respondents were requested to record to the presence of certain physical components in their personal bedroom space that may potentially increase their feel of privacy control in general. Results indicated that some physical components such a kitchenette, a TV, and an audio station in the bedroom were important. Additional factors that affected privacy control feel included shape of the room, as square rooms provided more sense of control. In addition, smaller bedroom area increased feel of control, and a corridor before bedroom was seen as a predictor of privacy control

Enhancing Supportive and Adaptive Environments for Aging Populations in Jordan: Examining Location Dynamics

This study explores home modification and personalization as mechanisms to promote aging in place and independence for older adults in Jordan. Personalization and home modification are important because they help older people age in place and promote independence. Thus, this study investigated elderly adaptability and housing alteration methods in Jordan. As the first study in Jordan, this research examined the meaning of aging and cultural variations in aging in place. The study tested the following hypotheses for different governorates, all showing significant effects: (I) overall, the sense of control is different in different locations, (II) space personalization is different in different locations, (III) home modification is associated with location, (IV) the association between space personalization and overall sense of control varies across locations, and (V) home modification is associated with the overall sense of control differently in different locations. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of regulated and well-organized home care services to ensure seniors can receive the necessary care while remaining in their families and communities. This research offers valuable insights into the cultural variations surrounding visions of aging in place and emphasizes the need for further research

Aging in Place in Jordan: Assessing Home Modifications, Accessibility Barriers, and Cultural Constraints

Jordan’s aging population faces a critical challenge: a strong cultural preference for aging at home, rooted in Islamic ethics of familial care (birr al-wālidayn), conflicts with housing stock that is largely unsafe and inaccessible. This first national mixed-methods study examines the intersection of home modifications, socio-economic barriers, and cultural constraints to aging in place. Data from 587 surveys and 35 interviews across seven governorates were analyzed using chi-square tests, linear regression, and thematic coding. Results indicate that while physical modifications significantly improve accessibility to key spaces like kitchens and reception areas (majlis) (χ2 = 341.86, p p < 0.001). We conclude that effective policy must integrate universal design with Islamic care ethics. We propose three actionable recommendations: (1) mandating universal design in building codes (aligned with SDG 11), (2) establishing means-tested subsidy programs (aligned with SDG 10), and (3) launching public awareness campaigns co-led by faith leaders to reframe modifications as preserving dignity (karama) (aligned with SDG 3). This approach provides a model for other rapidly aging Middle Eastern societies facing similar cultural-infrastructural tensions

Space Personalization as a Catalyst for Sustainable Aging in Place: Enhancing Elderly Autonomy Through Culturally Adaptive Housing in Jordan

In Jordan, where aging at home reflects Islamic cultural values, elderly populations face housing environments that fail to meet their needs, challenging sustainable aging-in-place objectives. This study explores how space personalization enhances autonomy and control among Jordan&rsquo;s elderly using a mixed-methods approach combining surveys and interviews across multiple governorates. Findings reveal that space personalization strengthens elders&rsquo; sense of control over daily activities and household decisions, with private room allocation emerging as particularly significant. While conflicts between generations present barriers to control, cherished objects, such as heirlooms and religious artifacts, play a vital role in maintaining emotional connections and territorial identity. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive housing modifications that respect cultural traditions while addressing practical needs, recommending community-based care programs and intergenerational dialogue initiatives. These insights contribute to sustainable urban development strategies that support dignified aging while preserving socio-cultural heritage, offering lessons for similar communities facing rapid demographic transitions

Socio-Spatial Bridging Through Walkability: A GIS and Mixed-Methods Analysis in Amman, Jordan

Decades of migration and refugee influxes have driven Amman&rsquo;s rapid urban growth, yet newer neighborhoods increasingly grapple with fragmented social cohesion. This study examines whether walkable design can strengthen community bonds, focusing on Deir Ghbar, a car-centric district in West Amman. Using GIS and mixed-methods analysis, we assess how walkability metrics (residential density, street connectivity, land-use mix, and retail density) correlate with sense of community. The results reveal that street connectivity and residential density enhance social cohesion, while land-use mix exhibits no significant effect. High-density, compact neighborhoods foster neighborly interactions, but major roads disrupt these connections. A critical mismatch emerges between quantitative land-use metrics and resident experiences, highlighting the need to integrate spatial data with community insights. Amman&rsquo;s zoning policies, particularly the stark contrast between affluent low-density Zones A/B and underserved high-density Zones C/D, perpetuate socio-spatial segregation&mdash;a central critique of this study. We urge the Greater Amman Municipality&rsquo;s 2025 Master Plan to prioritize mixed-density zoning, pedestrian retrofits (e.g., traffic calming and sidewalk upgrades), and equitable access to amenities. This study provides a replicable GIS and survey-based framework to address urban socio-spatial divides, aligning with SDG 11 for inclusive cities. It advocates for mixed-density zoning and pedestrian-first interventions in Amman&rsquo;s Master Plan. By integrating a GIS with social surveys, this study offers a replicable model for addressing socio-spatial divides in cities facing displacement and inequality

Service Accessibility and Wellbeing in Amman’s Neighborhoods: A Comparative Study of Abdoun Al-Janoubi and Al-Zahra

Amman, the capital of Jordan, has undergone significant urbanization over the past seventy years, evolving from a small village into the nation’s largest city. This rapid growth has led to unpredictable population increases, creating socioeconomic disparities and affecting residents’ access to services and overall wellbeing. This study investigates the impact of service accessibility on wellbeing in two neighborhoods of Amman: Abdoun Al-Janoubi and Al-Zahra. Data were gathered from 492 household heads through structured interviews and systematic sampling. The study analyzed accessibility factors such as safety, convenience, comfort, and esthetics, and their influence on residents’ wellbeing, defined by positive emotions, social relationships, and overall life meaning. The results indicate a robust correlation between service accessibility and resident wellbeing, with Abdoun Al-Janoubi demonstrating superior accessibility and higher wellbeing compared to Al-Zahra. Key insights are illustrated, with data supporting the idea that enhanced urban service access improves quality of life. Safety and esthetics are critical factors, while comfort is less significant. Abdoun Al-Janoubi’s favorable attributes lead to higher wellbeing scores. Recommendations for urban planners include improving Al-Zahra’s infrastructure, enhancing esthetics, and optimizing public transport. Community organizations should promote social engagement, while local governments need to adjust zoning laws and upgrade public amenities