Effects of Neighbourhood Environment on Social and Physical Functioning in Older Age

Abstract

Frailty in older age can limit physical functioning and thereby social functioning, including social contacts and participation. Compared with younger people, older people's leisure activities are more concentrated in the immediate home and neighborhood. Their independence, personal autonomy, sense of control over life, and physical, mental, psychological, and social functioning are closely connected with their living conditions and the structure of the residential neighborhood. These represent important aspects of restriction and exclusion. There is some evidence that older people regard their home and neighborhood to be a main influence on the quality of their lives. The special significance of historical and present attachment to place of residence among older people is just beginning to be explored. Research on the effects of neighborhood on adults of all ages is still evolving. However, older people who live in less affluent areas, and areas they perceive to be less neighborly, are less likely than others to be socially active, and those who rate the quality of the facilities in their areas as poorer are more likely than others to have worse physical functioning.