Neighborhood built environment and mobility in older populations: A review and evaluation of proposed and implied policies

Elements of the neighborhood built environment, including land-use patterns and perceived safety, have been shown to be associated with mobility in older populations. There are two policies that follow from research in this area. The first policy is direct environmental modification, e.g., through zoning changes to make neighborhoods more "walkable." The second policy is to assist older residents in adapting to environmental challenges and enhancing movement through neighborhoods, e.g., through "walking maps" that highlight safe and effective routes. This presentation will summarize the research on the built environment and mobility in older populations as well as identify the strengths and limitations of the two policy options.