[Adapting the environment to encourage the elderly to walk: a qualitative study]

Population ageing is a major public health issue. While physical activity can slow the ageing process and help maintain independence, the lack of suitable infrastructures is a major obstacle to exercise. The ?Saint-Roch: Sport, Health and Senior Citizens' (4S) project, aimed at renovating an urban area of Nice, was developed based on consultation with elderly residents. The aim of the project was to adapt the construction and implementation of an urban walking trail to users' expectations. The qualitative research method of focus groups was used on a sample of autonomous elderly residents living in the area. Transcripts of conversations with participants were coded and analyzed using N'Vivo© software. Three focus groups reflecting the profiles of senior residents living in the area were conducted to achieve idea saturation. As an important activity for both physical and mental health, walking involves a range of obstacles such as health problems, loneliness and lack of purpose, in addition to a number of environmental urban obstacles. A preliminary walking route was developed based on thirty-two practical suggestions. The main purpose of this study is to adapt urban reconstruction to the specific needs of the elderly, including their social relationships, in order to encourage long-term use. This study also highlights the interaction between the environment and key aspects of health at an urban level in terms of physical, social and mental well-being, i.e. the major factors influencing quality of life.