Elderly people interact with the built environment in ways that
reflect changing lifestyles and changing physical capabilities. After
retirement, people have more time to enjoy parks, recreational
activities, and other community facilities.
At the same time, conditions such as chronic diseases and limited vision may
limit mobility and create special needs. For example, an elderly person who is no longer able to drive but lives
in an area with buses, transit, and other transportation options has the
ability to stay mobile well beyond the capacity of many in suburban communities.
Housing is another example of an environment that can affect the lives of the
elderly. From conventional apartments to assisted living facilities, a variety
of design features can be helpful. These include adequate lighting, shelving
that does not require climbing or bending, equipment such as telephones with
large-print labels, and alternatives to stairs. Housing design should provide
plenty of opportunity for physical activity. If elderly housing is located in walkable communities, near destinations such as libraries, stores, and places of
worship, then elderly people can remain independent, active, and engaged.
Combined transportation and land-use planning that offers convenient, accessible
alternatives to driving can help the elderly reach this goal of an active, healthy
lifestyle.
For more information on elders' health and the built environment, refer
to the following
resources:
Additional information on elders' health and the built environment as well as other related topics can be found in the Additional Resources section.
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