The influence of community and the built environment on physical activity

J Aging Health. 2012 Apr;24(3):384-406. doi: 10.1177/0898264311424430. Epub 2011 Nov 2.

Abstract

Objective: To examine associations between the built environment and leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among African Americans and Whites.

Method: Independent and control variables were produced from the literature and theory to represent key components of built environment, sense of community, sociodemographic, and health status characteristics. Logistic regression analysis and descriptive statistics were used to measures correlative relationships with physical activity.

Results: Built environment elements, especially homeownership, were associated with LTPA, particularly among older African American rural residents.

Discussion: Recommendations include transferring the concept of community ownership to residents living in areas where rates of physical activity are low.

MeSH terms

  • Alabama
  • Black or African American / statistics & numerical data*
  • Environment*
  • Exercise*
  • Health Status*
  • Housing
  • Humans
  • Leisure Activities*
  • Poverty Areas
  • Residence Characteristics*
  • Rural Population
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Urban Population
  • White People / statistics & numerical data