Exploring How Neighborhoods Affect Walking for People with Dementia
Author Information
Author(s): Chaudhury Habib, Seetharaman Kishore, Wong Joey, Hung Lillian, Randa-Beaulieu Cari, Freeman Shannon, Groulx Mark
Primary Institution: Simon Fraser University
Hypothesis
How do people with dementia experience their neighborhood environment while walking outdoors?
Conclusion
The study found that both supportive and constraining aspects of the neighborhood environment significantly influence outdoor walking experiences for people living with dementia.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants identified environmental barriers and stressors that affected their mobility and navigation.
- Insights from the study can inform dementia-friendly planning and design.
Takeaway
This study shows that the way neighborhoods are designed can help or hurt people with dementia when they go for walks.
Methodology
Four-part sequential sit-down and video-documented walk-along interviews were conducted with participants.
Participant Demographics
Participants were living with mild to moderate dementia or mild cognitive impairment.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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