A Framework for Measuring Neighborhood Walkability for Older Adults-A Delphi Consensus Study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Urban Planning

Background:

• Mobility in older age is vital for health and well-being.
• Existing German frameworks lack consideration of individual functional status for walkability.
• A comprehensive approach is needed to measure walkability for older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a German language framework for measuring walkability in older adults.
• To incorporate functional status into walkability assessments for the elderly.
• To identify and rate relevant indicators for older adult walkability.

Main Methods:

• Combined expert workshop, literature review, and a multi-stage Delphi consensus survey.
• Identified and rated potential indicators for walkability in older adults.
• Assessed indicator relevance across different frailty levels (robust, pre-frail, frail).

Main Results:

• Developed a list of 72 relevant indicators for older adult walkability.
• Grouped indicators into: Built environment/transport, Accessibility/meeting places, Attractiveness/security.
• Recommended considering functional status for 35 indicators.

Conclusions:

• The developed framework comprehensively covers subjective and objective walkability indicators for older adults.
• Incorporation of functional status provides a more personalized approach to walkability assessment.
• Further testing and application in community settings are recommended.