Fostering Mobility for People Living with Dementia in Suburban Neighborhoods Through Land Use, Urban Design and Wayfinding

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) calls dementia the leading cause of dependency and disability among older adults. People living with dementia (PLWD) are more likely to reside in community, and often within suburban areas. This research examines mobility barriers and supports for PLWD within suburban neighborhoods in Waterloo, Canada. We conducted thirteen participatory go-along interviews with seven PLWD, identifying supports/barriers relating to land-use and transportation, urban design, and wayfinding. While this research highlighted mobility barriers for participants, suburban neighborhoods were also perceived as enabling environments, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding of life in suburban settings.