Paths to urban mobility and accessibility: challenges and perceptions of older adults in the city of Pelotas (Rio Grande do Sul)

This study analyzes urban mobility and accessibility based on the perception of older adults aged 60 and over in the city of Pelotas (RS), located in southern Brazil. The objective is to identify the challenges that these people face daily when moving and accessing services, amenities, leisure and housing spaces in urban areas characterized by different socioeconomic conditions. Data collection was based on the application of two qualitative methods: Participatory Mapping and World Café. The methodology sought, through a participatory approach, to enhance the voice of residents and understand which aspects should be considered as a priority to plan agefriendly communities, that is, that provide all the support necessary for healthy aging with access to support and possibilities for safe movement. Data collected in three communities are presented in this article: the Central area, representing a higher income, a section of the Fragata neighborhood, representing an average income, and the Navegantes subdivision, representing a lower income. The data collected and analyzed is part of an international research project called “Place-Making with Older People: Towards Age Friendly Communities”, conducted between 2016 and 2021 and funded by the British agency ESRC. The results highlighted fundamental issues such as safety and walkability, indicating that the possibility of remaining active in the neighborhood is directly linked to the perception of safety when traveling. It is hoped that the discussions presented can contribute to research in the field
of public police, urban planning, and urban design for older adults.