Age differences in the relation of perceived neighborhood environment to walking among chinese adult women dwelling in urban area

Abstract

Evidence from Western countries suggests that built environmental attributes can influence the physical activity participation in adults, but whether or not this is the case for Chinese is unknown. Also, the strength of the relationship of environment to physical activity may differ by age group. The present study examined age-related differences in associations between perceived neighborhood environment and walking in Chinese women dwelling in Beijing. Cross-sectional data were collected through an internet-based survey. Total of 737 women aged 30 to 59 years responded. All of them were then divided into three groups based on the age: aged from 30-39, from 40-49 and from 50-59. In addition to socio demographic information, the perceived neighborhood environment was measured by Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale Questionnaire, and their walking time per week was collected through International Physical Activity Questionnaire. To measure relationship between perceived neighborhood environment and walking time, partial correlations were computed, adjusting for socio demographics. Walking time was significantly related to residential density in aged 40-49 years, and land use mix-access, walking/cycling facilities, traffic safety variables in aged 50- 59 years. The present study indicates that there would be differences in associations between neighborhood attributes by age-groups. Future, public health promotion of walking activity and the design of interventions need to consider the contribution of neighborhood level built environment influences.