Physical Dimension Analysis of Therapeutic Landscape of Shahid Rajaei Park in Isfahan

Urbanization and the resulting lifestyle, along with the existence of spaces far from nature, can be seen in both architectural and urban spaces and in humans with physical and psychological damage. On the other hand, the growing aging of the world requires serious considerations by designers and planners of cities. The search for the components of the physical dimension of therapeutic landscapes (Shahid Rajaei Park in Isfahan) is the main question of the research. Based on qualitative research method and qualitative analysis with inductive approach, semi-structured interviews with 21 elderly people (using MAXQDA software) were conducted. To promote therapeutic and decrease anti-therapeutic themes, research results identified physical efficiency and capability, natural and physical-historical attractiveness, accessibility and proximity, climatic comfort, sound landscape, sensory stimulation, landscape beauty, mindscape and positive emotions, unfavorable sound landscape and decrease in physical efficiency. Affecting the mental health of the elderly, the Park has been able to provide a therapeutic experience by creating a relative balance, enhancing internal capacity and adaptation to maintain physical, mental, and psychological functions. Health consequences such as a sense of calm, attention recovery, and mood improvement are the result of such an experience. The most important subcategories are satisfaction, trees, and sociable space. Older trees had a significant positive impact on climate comfort, sensory stimulation, natural attractiveness, mindscape, landmark, proximity, and landscape beauty.