Prize 202203PJT - Promoting Outdoor Mobility via Enhancing Neighborhood Walkability for Racialized Older Women: A Community-Based Participatory Project.

The COVID-19 pandemic amplified the vulnerability of older adults due to health risks, increased isolation, and difficulties accessing essential services. Racialized older women from Muslim communities have been at increased risk for deterioration in health status during the pandemic. This is directly related to increased incidences of violence against women of color and religious minorities which has translated into increased isolation and restricted mobility outside the home. We will use participatory and mixed method approaches to engage racialized immigrant older Muslim women in identifying barriers to walking outdoors in their local neighborhoods. We will then co-design and implement strategies to maximize opportunities for outdoor walking. Final study outcomes will include an intersectional analysis of barriers and facilitators of outdoor walking in this population and tailored recommendations for improving outdoor mobility.