Máire Cox

Freelance writer, researcher and editor•http://www.alastaircox.com/category/mairecox-com/

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Areas of interest: Knowledge Exchange Research

Máire Cox is a freelance writer, researcher and editor, with particular expertise in online communication. She collaborates with her partner, Alastair, on web-based projects with a social element, such as DementiaMap, a Twitter-based service tracking online news coverage of dementia. Together, Máire and Alastair have designed, built and curated the Memory-Friendly Neighbourhoods website. In addition to her freelance work, Máire is a knowledge exchange professional based in the OPENspace research centre at the University of Edinburgh. She is responsible for communicating research progress, outputs and evidence to non-academic audiences and in tracking and documenting its ‘real world’ impact. She worked on Inclusive Design for Getting Outdoors (I'DGO) and is currently engaged on Mobility, Mood and Place (MMP).

Why does the outdoor environment matter?

Research by Inclusive Design for Getting Outdoors (I’DGO) has found that the design of Britain’s gardens, streets, neighbourhoods and open spaces affects older people’s ability to age well and live independently by supporting, or preventing, access for all. This summary of research findings from both phases of I'DGO includes key messages and implications for professionals and policy makers.

Ten years of research excellence in inclusive access to outdoor environments

Pocket history of OPENspace, celebrating the first ten years of the research centre (2001-2011).

A built environment for all ages

There is growing evidence that well-designed outdoor spaces can enhance the long-term health and wellbeing of those who use them regularly. In March 2010, KT-EQUAL hosted a workshop to examine what this means for older people. With key speakers from local and national government, academia and advocacy, the event made connections between policy, research and practice. Delegates from a range of professions contributed to a multi-disciplinary conversation, exploring how ‘joined-up’ thinking can create truly inclusive places, from local neighbourhoods to entire cities.