Neighborhood walkability and health outcomes among older adults: The mediating role of physical activity

Abstract

We examined the mediating role of physical activity on the relationships of walkability with Flemish older adults' health outcomes. In low income neighborhoods, residents of high walkable neighborhoods had a 1.5kg/m2 lower BMI than low walkable residents. Of this difference 0.3kg/m2 (19%) and 0.2kg/m2 (12%) were explained through walking for transport and MVPA, respectively. Similar findings were observed for waist circumference. Walkability did not relate to functional performance or quality of life. Walkable neighborhoods may benefit older adults’ health, especially in low income neighborhoods. More research in other contexts is warranted to confirm current findings.