Improving locomotive syndrome risk level through community‐led activities to establish walking habits

Abstract

Abstract We evaluated the effects of walking habits and mobility improvement on an aging population among 30 residents of a suburban residential complex with the aim of promoting sustainable health activities led by residents. The results showed a total of 911 person‐days of actual walking (Mean = 30.4, Standard Deviation = 15.7) with an average of 30 days per person or a frequency of almost daily intervals over 2 months. In total, 68.4% of early‐ and 54.5% of late‐elderly participants met the recommended criteria for healthy older adults. The results of the GLFS‐25 and 2‐step tests showed a significant improvement in the mobility function after the walking period compared to before the walking period. In addition to the improvements in physical mobility, there were improvements in social interactions and participation in community activities. The participants' post‐walking effect showed that 85% of them were in good health, 50% had positive social interactions, and 25% had positive statements regarding community and town planning. The results verified that resident‐led sustainable walking activities can establish walking habits and improve mobility.

Keywords

• locomotive syndrome (LS)
• mobility decline
• resident activities
• senior citizens
• suburban community
• town planning