The impact of residential environment on older people‘s capabilities to live independently: Evidence from Beijing

Abstract

Noticing the deficiencies of the traditional successful aging model, this study proposes a community-based approach to promote healthy aging that enables older people to adapt and self-manage from the capability approach perspective. Using hierarchical multiple regression analysis of data from 650 older adults (60 years and older) surveyed in Beijing, this study aims to unravel how the residential environment supports Chinese older adults' capabilities to live independently. The results show that inequalities in residential environments cause differences in older adults’ capabilities between neighborhoods. Four environmental factors (namely: home accessibility, pleasant surroundings, meeting opportunities, and life convenience) positively affect older adults’ capabilities to live independently. Meeting opportunities are more relevant for frail older adults. This study contributes to the understanding of how the residential environment supports healthy aging from the capability approach perspective. Results can be used to develop effective community-based policies.