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Translating Urban Walkability Initiatives for Older Adults in Rural and Under-Resourced Communities

Author

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  • Alexandra Klann

    (Department of Nutrition, Simmons University, Boston, MA 02115, USA)

  • Linh Vu

    (Department of Nutrition, Simmons University, Boston, MA 02115, USA)

  • Mollie Ewing

    (Children and Family Services Corporation, Vincennes, IN 47951, USA)

  • Mark Fenton

    (Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA)

  • Rachele Pojednic

    (Department of Nutrition, Simmons University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
    Harvard Medical School, Institute of Lifestyle Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA)

Abstract

The built environment can promote physical activity in older adults by increasing neighborhood walkability. While efforts to increase walkability are common in urban communities, there is limited data related to effective implementation in rural communities. This is problematic, as older adults make up a significant portion of rural inhabitants and exhibit lower levels of physical activity. Translating lessons from urban strategies may be necessary to address this disparity. This review examines best practices from urban initiatives that can be implemented in rural, resource-limited communities. The review of the literature revealed that simple, built environment approaches to increase walkability include microscale and pop-up infrastructure, municipal parks, and community gardens, which can also increase physical activity in neighborhoods for urban older adults. These simple and cost-effective strategies suggest great potential for rural communities.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexandra Klann & Linh Vu & Mollie Ewing & Mark Fenton & Rachele Pojednic, 2019. "Translating Urban Walkability Initiatives for Older Adults in Rural and Under-Resourced Communities," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-16, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:16:y:2019:i:17:p:3041-:d:259803
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    References listed on IDEAS

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