Differentiating intentions and competence: Exploring living environments and health outcomes among older adults in diverse residential (im-)mobility scenarios

• Published in: Cities Vol. 147; p. 104802
• Main Authors: Zhang, Ziqi, Wen, Fang, Xu, Danhua
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2024
• Subjects: Aging-in-place; Health; Housing; Older adults; Residential mobility; Housing; Residential mobility; Health; Aging-in-place; Older adults
• ISSN: 0264-2751; 1873-6084
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cities.2024.104802

The growing mobility and academic emphasis have challenged the traditional link between remaining in one place and successful aging, emphasizing dwelling conditions that fit older adults and their preferences for relocating or staying. Using 5034 older-participant data in the CFPS 2012/2014 waves, we categorized them into six categories based on their intended or unintended (im-)mobility. Descriptive statistics revealed diverse housing and community characteristics and their health consequences. Logistic regression and paired-sample Wilcoxon signed-rank tests examined health changes across categories, while panel-ordered logit models explored the influence of housing and community features on health. The results indicate no significant correlation between (im-)mobility types and health outcomes, although certain subgroups exhibit meaningful relationships. Intended immobility seems to provide more psychological benefits than substantive health advantages. Whether intentional or not, relocation often leads to improved housing conditions, better aligning them with physical needs. The study also outlines the (im-)mobility process among older adults, from intention and competence to action, and establishes an intention/competence model for their (im-)mobility. Enhanced comprehension in this field would be beneficial for reassessing whether older individuals should stay in place or relocate, and for emphasizing the significance of tailored strategies for the living arrangements of the older population. •Consider older adults in diverse (im-)mobility, including intention, action, and living environment for deeper insight.•"Intended immobility" (akin to aging in place) brings more psychological benefits than improved health for older adults.•Depict older adults' intent, competence, and action in (im-)mobility, emphasizing person-environment congruence and outcomes.•Urge practitioners and policymakers to grasp "aging in place" and offer housing modifications and relocation counseling.