How your environment plays a role in positive ageing
Professor Marita McCabe is the Director of the Institute for Health and Ageing at Australian Catholic University.
But deciding to move away from your home is a big decision to make and there is certainly more to consider than just the weather. As well as the financial, emotional and family considerations, have you ever thought about the effect that your local environment can have on your health?
Experts agree that, where possible, it is best for older people to “age in place” – to stay in their own homes and live as independently as possible. This might mean staying in your own home or downsizing into a new place which is easier to maintain.
If you choose to live independently then you need to stay active and mobile to maintain both your physical and mental health and reduce your risk of chronic disease. It is also important to be part of your local community which might include family, friends, activities and your network of health professionals.
If you are thinking about relocating to a new place, then you need to consider living somewhere that supports you to live a healthy and active life.
Research from the Institute of Health and Ageing has found that neighborhood and residential environments may play a key role in shaping older adults’ activity patterns, which, in turn, influences their health, wellbeing and independence.
Our research has found that older adults who live in an environment which facilitates them to walk frequently give themselves the best chance of maintaining their health and wellbeing.
Factors that can facilitate regular walking include environments with shops, services and good quality parks nearby and safe walking paths to reach them.
Although older Australians need to consider these factors when choosing where to live, the responsibility for providing the right built environment and good urban design falls firmly with our government and policy makers.
Currently, environmental features particular to Australia, such as rapid suburbanisation, dispersed development patterns, the lack of accessible public transport, and dependence on cars all present obstacles to older people’s independence and activity levels.
If government and policy makers can provide new evidence-based environmental and policy initiatives to counteract these features, then we can encourage older Australians to be more active and engaged in their communities. A safe pedestrian environment, good access to shops, a mix of housing choices, good health and recreational facilities are all important elements that can positively affect the ageing experience.
Professor Marita McCabe will be writing a monthly column on positive ageing for Over60. If you would like to ask her any questions, please contact melody@oversixty.com.au
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