Analysis of Older People’s Use of Nighttime Urban Parks and Landscape Satisfaction

Urban life’s busyness and high pressure have increased demand for all†weather park use, yet most studies examine daytime landscapes with limited attention to older adults’ nighttime satisfaction. This study analyzes nighttime usage patterns and landscape satisfaction among older adults in five urban parks in Linyi City, China. Data from 78 respondents indicated that physical exercise (89.7%) and social gatherings (83.3%) were primary activities, underscoring parks’ roles in supporting physical and social well†being. Frequent visitors rated functional elements highly—satisfaction for lighting (89.7%) and safety facilities (91%) strongly correlated with increased park use. These findings highlight the importance of well†lit, safe, and accessible parks in promoting nighttime visits among older adults. Conversely, plant†related features such as light†colored and aromatic plants were over 90% dissatisfaction, suggesting they contribute little to the nighttime park experience. The weak correlation between plant characteristics and usage patterns indicates older visitors prioritize safety and functionality over aesthetics at night. The study concludes that urban park designs should prioritize improved lighting, safety, and accessibility to better serve older adults after dark, while incorporating inclusive and adaptive features such as age-sensitive lighting and activity zones to enhance the nighttime experience for all generations.