Understanding the barriers and facilitators of urban greenway use among older and disadvantaged adults: A mixed-methods study in Québec city

Urban greenways, known for their socio-ecological and health benefits, face significant barriers to access and use, particularly among older and disadvantaged adults. A study in Québec City, Canada, identified nuanced factors influencing these groups' engagement with greenway trails. Using a mixed-methods approach—including user counts, observations, and interviews—the research revealed that older adults predominantly used the trails for solitary afternoon walks, with notable seasonal variations such as reduced winter cycling and impracticality due to snow conditions on secondary trails. The findings categorized facilitators and barriers into individual, physical environment, social environment, and meteorological dimensions, offering insights for future interventions to enhance greenway value for these user groups.

Audate, P. P., Romaric Da, S. M. A., & Diallo, T. (2024). Understanding the barriers and facilitators of urban greenway use among older and disadvantaged adults: A mixed-methods study in Québec city. Health & Place, 89, 103340. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103340