This study aims to establish cognitive-friendly design principles for public spaces by systematically analyzing the visual perception and cognitive characteristics of the elderly. Aging introduces spatial perception challenges due to slower visual processing speeds, reduced contrast sensitivity, and a narrowed field of vision. Additionally, cognitive characteristics indicate a reliance
on egocentric spatial cognition, a preference for top-down processing, and an inclination toward familiar and emotionally positive stimuli. These factors necessitate design strategies that enhance spatial navigation, improve target recognition, and optimize environmental predictability to support elderly users. This study derives cognitive-friendly spatial design strategies by reflecting the visual and cognitive characteristics of the elderly and subsequently formulates detailed design principles. The study establishes three key design strategies: 1. Enhancing target recognition by strengthening visual stimuli at key locations. 2. Reinforcing spatial continuity to improve wayfinding and spatial cognition. 3. Establishing a predictable navigation system to facilitate intuitive movement. For each strategy, five specific design principles are proposed. These principles provide visual cues in spatial contexts and emphasize vanishing points to reinforce egocentric spatial cognition. Additionally, prominent stimuli are used to compensate for weakened bottom-up processing, while familiar and intuitive imagery is integrated to enhance cognitive processing speed. This study proposes a strategic framework for cognitive-friendly public space design, ensuring spatial accessibility, autonomy, and engagement for elderly users. By addressing visual, cognitive, and spatial perception challenges, these principles contribute to the development of inclusive and navigable environments. Future research should focus on empirical validation of these principles in various public spaces, evaluating their effectiveness in enhancing spatial usability and quality of life for elderly users.