Seniors Thrive in Walkable Places

Marsha King, writing for the Seattle Times, on how walkability improves seniors’ quality of life:

Until now, the main strategy has been through programs that emphasize exercise, nutrition and managing chronic disease. Or to fit a home with so-called universal-design features such as bathtub grab bars.

But studies are starting to show a neighborhood’s walkability — how well its streets connect and whether it has sidewalks, nearby shopping and welcoming public places — helps or hinders how well its residents age.

“We’re pretty confident at this point that a part of healthy aging is independence and actually being able to get places without relying on other people,” said Larry Frank, an expert on urban land use and an associate professor at the University of British Columbia. Frank is helping complete several research studies on the link between physical activity and neighborhoods in King County.

Allowing seniors to age in place gives them several benefits. First, walkable neighborhoods give an amount of independence not found in the typical senior and assisted living facilities. In addition, walking provides many health and wellness benefits. Finally, allowing seniors to continue living in the same community they have spent their lives is good for everyone. The multi-generational community is more vibrant because of them and the seniors get to enjoy the community they know and love.