Measuring neighbourhood walkability for older adults: development and pilot validation of a multidimensional scale

Introduction While there is a growing recognition of walkable neighbourhoods in promoting the health and well-being of older adults, there is limited evidence of a validated, multidimensional measurement scale tailored for Indian context that integrates policy antecedents, built environment attributes, and behavioural outcomes. This study aims to develop and pilot-validate such a scale for assessing neighbourhood walkability among older adults. Methods A three-phase scale development process was adopted. First, an extensive review of 217 studies across multiple disciplines generated an initial pool of 95 items representing eleven constructs. Second, the instrument was refined through expert content validation involving multidisciplinary domain specialists. Third, a pilot study was conducted with 43 older adults (aged 60 years and above) in Udupi, India. The measurement model was assessed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), enabling systematic item reduction and construct validation. Results The final 33-item scale comprises three policy-related antecedents, five walkability dimensions, and three outcome constructs related to physical activity, socialization, and quality of life. The scale demonstrates acceptable reliability and preliminary evidence of convergent and discriminant validity, consistent with pilot-stage validation. Discussion The proposed scale offers a contextually relevant and structured tool for assessing walkability among older adults in Indian cities, with potential applications in research, planning, and policy evaluation. This study develops and pilot-validates an integrative measurement framework that links policy enablers, built environment attributes, and well-being outcomes within the Indian urban context.