NEIGHBORHOOD ATTACHMENT, HEALTH SITUATION, AND PHYSICAL AND SOCIAL ASPECTS OF NEIGHBORHOOD: A CROSS-NATIONAL EXAMINATION

Health and life situation varies extensively among older people. The differences are dependent of the personal aspects, e.g. sex, age, and education (Cummins et al., 2005), and environmental factors, e.g. neighborhood... [ view full abstract ]

Health and life situation varies extensively among older people. The differences are dependent of the personal aspects, e.g. sex, age, and education (Cummins et al., 2005), and environmental factors, e.g. neighborhood characteristics, such as access to services, and public transport modes (Marmot, 2003). Research has shown the importance of usability and accessibility of the neighborhood as increasingly important for the health and life situation of older people (Oswald et al., 2007). The aim of this study was thus to examine the relationship between the aforementioned aspects and the health situation of older people in two countries.

A total of 700 participants (Sweden: N=397, Latvia: N=303), aged 75-89. The analysis utilizes Spearman rank correlations and logistic regression models. Variables representing the health situation were Self-rated Health and Geriatric Depression Symptoms (GDS), both dichotomized.

For both countries, not being depressed was significantly correlated with sum score of positive neighborhood factors, safety, having cultural opportunities in the vicinity, and financial situation. In Sweden, neighborhood satisfaction and attachment was significantly correlated with self-rated health, and financial situation with not being depressed in Latvia. Self rated health depends on neighborhood satisfaction, lighting, seating places, higher education, financial situation, and dependence on mobility devices. The last two factors together with neighborhood index and country affect the GDS.

The health situation of old people is mostly dependent of the neighborhood characteristics.

Hence, to promote healthy aging and well-being for older people in different countries, the importance of fostering customized, well-designed residential areas should be taken into consideration.