Path Analysis to Assess Diversity of Occupational Opportunities Within Walking Distance and Community Health.

Abstract

Built environment structures affect a population's occupational participation and health outcomes. To examine how occupational opportunities available within walking distance are related to a community's overall health. Secondary data analysis. Community. Community-dwelling adults. Data from the AARP Livability Index and Walk Score® for 78 zip codes were used for path analysis and multiple regression analysis to investigate the relationship between various community factors and the health of the community. Path analysis for 78 zip codes revealed that the primary determinants of health score were destination diversity and social walk score. Multiple regression analysis revealed that destination diversity (β < .001) and exercise opportunity (β < .001) were significant factors for health score. Multiple regression analysis revealed that destination diversity (β < .001) was a significant factor for social score. The results suggest that increased diversity of destinations in a community and opportunities available for social participation within walking distance are associated with better health of residents in the community. Plain-Language Summary: This study highlights how the built environment and opportunities for social participation are associated with a community's overall health. This study found that participation in a variety of group activities contributes to community members' well-being. Understanding how the built environment is related to health outcomes may better equip occupational therapy practitioners to improve the health of an individual, group, or population.