Canadian Journal on Aging · May 6, 2022
Residential environment and healthy aging: the role of physical activity and social participation
By Patte M, Chaix B, Gerber P et al.
Population aging is one of the major challenges of the 21st century. It directly raises the question of “healthy aging,” a process that helps older adults remain healthy and independent for as long as possible. The influence of environmental factors on this process may vary depending on individuals and their behaviors. The intertwining of these factors presents both a theoretical and a methodological challenge. This article aims i) to quantify the associations between the physical and social environment of older adults' neighborhoods and their healthy aging and ii) to examine whether their physical activity and social participation play a mediating role in these associations. While certain neighborhood characteristics relating to reputation, access to services, and social cohesion are associated with healthy aging, there is limited support for the idea that behaviors play an intermediary role in this relationship.