Individuality in Place-making at End-of-Life: Gerontopia

Focusing on the individuality of human beings in end-of-life settings, this paper seeks to elevate the discussion on the meaning of place through design. The weighted personal value of place is captured in the author’s term Gerontopia—the place where we want to grow old and die.

A graphical place-making model is illustrated for future research and practice. The model reflects social research theory and maps individual characteristics throughout the life span where meaning of place takes central stage.

The model graphs the following:
• Individual competence and fit with environment
• Cultural/personal/social makeup of an individual
• Change during the life span
• Level of meaning and connectedness to place
• Variation of lifespan slopes