An aging and values-driven theory of mobility

Abstract

Maintaining mobility is crucial for healthy aging in older adults. While the importance of mobility and the availability of various mobility solutions are well-acknowledged, little is known about the values that drive older adults’ maintenance of mobility. By adopting a values-driven perspective, this study argues that understanding these values is essential for promoting the adoption of, and mitigating resistance to, mobility solutions among older adults. In this regard, this study aims to explore the values underpinning the concept of mobility and the notion of aging in older adults. Using a grounded theory methodology, a thematic analysis of interviews with older adults on their experiences with aging and mobility was conducted. This analysis revealed five core values–Go-Go, Resilience, Empowerment, Adaptability, and Technophile (GREAT)–that are intertwined with aging and mobility, leading to a new theory called the aging and values-driven theory of mobility. The insights from this study suggest that a variety of mobility solutions should be available to cater to the diverse mobility conditions experienced by older adults, ultimately creating a supportive ecosystem for healthy aging.