The impact of the Maltese urban environment on the elderly pedestrian

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the impact of the Maltese built environment on its elderly users, to examine consequences of its influence on their mobility. Quantitative approaches have shown to be limited in explaining the various ways places matter for people’s health and well-being, so this study aimed to incorporate multiple qualitative methods into the case study methodology, allowing for the in-depth investigation of a neighbourhood area in Birkirkara, Malta.

Firstly, a physical analysis of the case study area was conducted through a framework established from literature regarding walkability, followed by observations of elderly pedestrian behaviour. Sit-down interviews were then conducted with nine Maltese older adults, to gain an understanding of their perception of the urban environment. These interviews were followed by walk-along interviews conducted with willing subjects to observe their experiences in space, using the strengths of observations and interviewing simultaneously.

The participants’ descriptions of marginalisation through the restrictive nature of their neighbourhood reflects the observational analysis of the case study are undertaken earlier on in the process by the researcher. Findings also point to how mobility limitations associated with ageing are decisive influential factors on mobility regardless of the built environment. Combinations of environmental factors, as well as a combination of environmental conditions and personal preferences, all have different impacts on the attractiveness of walking for transportation among the elderly.

The findings suggest that pavement quality and traffic security are the two leading factors that influence elderly mobility in Malta, followed by the accessibility of services and facilities. The organisation of the environment has an influence on generating feelings of insecurity, isolation and loneliness, whilst an aversion to the outdoor environment can dimmish the independent mobility of the elderly and notably increase their dependence on others.