Rural-Move: Understanding and promoting independent mobility in older age in rural areas

Background:

Independent mobility is a key determinant of healthy ageing, as it promotes physical activity, psychological well-being, and social participation. In rural regions in particular, long distances, limited public transport services, and the decline of local amenities constrain the everyday mobility of older adults. Inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, a lack of seating in public spaces, or unsafe walking connections represent additional physical barriers, while social barriers such as feelings of insecurity or limited opportunities for participation further restrict independent mobility. To date, spatial and social determinants have mostly been examined separately; however, their interaction remains largely underexplored. This project addresses this gap by investigating how these factors interact and which barriers or resources are most influential for independent mobility.

Methods:

The project adopts a mixed-methods design and is implemented in two rural municipalities in Eastern Switzerland. A literature review identifies theoretical foundations related to spatial and social determinants of mobility in older age. Problem-centred interviews with political representatives capture local contextual conditions and institutional perspectives. Focus groups with older adults with and without mobility impairments explore everyday experiences, barriers, and social–spatial interactions. Co-creation workshops involving older residents and municipal stakeholders are used to jointly develop strategies and prioritised measures. The findings are synthesised to describe key determinants and interactions and to formulate actionable recommendations.

Outcomes and Impact:

The project provides empirically grounded insights into how spatial and social factors jointly shape the mobility of older adults in rural regions. It generates new evidence on barriers and enabling conditions that have so far received limited systematic attention. Practice-oriented recommendations support municipalities in developing measures to improve infrastructure, safety, and social participation. By actively involving older adults in co-creation workshops, the project fosters solution-oriented approaches that reflect local needs. Methodologically, the project contributes to the advancement of integrated analytical approaches and lays the foundation for a toolbox to be developed in a follow-up project and subsequently applied in additional municipalities.