Community accessibility and older adults with mobility impairments

In order for older adults to successfully age, they must be supported by the environment within their homes as well as the community environment. This study used a non-experimental survey design to explore how older adults with mobility impairments perceive the accessibility characteristics of their community. Thirty-seven older adults with mobility impairments completed the Adapted Home and Community Environment (HACE) assessment. This instrument provided information about participants' demographic and their perceptions about the accessibility of buildings and their community. Results suggest that on a scale of 'not at all', 'some', or 'a lot', older adults with mobility impairments perceive their communities to be somewhat accessible. Key findings included perceptions about the accessibility of public bathroom facilities, the weight of doors, and space in restaurants and stores. Preliminary findings suggest that if accessibility of the community is increased, older adults with mobility impairments will more actively participate in their communities