Assessing Older Adults’ Walkability in the Surroundings of Primary Care Centers: A Three-Case Study from Barcelona

This study aims to explore the walkability of three small areas (basic healthcare areas) of Barcelona city (Catalonia, Spain) for frail older adults. A mixed methods study design was conducted with 132 frail older adults in three primary care centers of Barcelona: Larrard, Barceloneta, and Vila Olímpica. A literature review was conducted to identify urban design indicators related to walkability and the aging population. These were then reflected in the surveys administered to the program participants, capturing information on their preferred routes, usual destinations, and walkability perceptions. Findings reveal significant mobility challenges for older adults, particularly the ones related to safety issues, the adequacy of sidewalk widths, greenery and urban furniture maintenance, and the presence/absence of commercial activities. This research underscores the importance of age-sensitive urban design in healthcare environments and provides a framework for enhancing walkability and accessibility for populations at greater risk of mobility-related health problems, such as frail older adults.