Life-course sociodemographic influences on mobility decline: a comparative qualitative study of older adults’ perspectives in Canada and Nigeria

Abstract

Mobility is fundamental to healthy ageing and quality of life, as it enables older adults to continue participating in all spheres of life, including social, cultural, civic, spiritual, and economic activities. This study explored and compared the perspectives of Canadian and Nigerian older adults regarding life-course sociodemographic influences on mobility decline. The two distinct national contexts provided insight into mobility decline between high-income and low-resource settings shaped by unique cultural, economic, and policy environments. We recruited eighteen Canadian and eighteen Nigerian community-dwelling older adults from diverse sociodemographic strata through community-based organisations. Using a qualitative description design, we interviewed the participants about their experiences with and observations about mobility decline. The transcripts were coded and analysed using conventional content analysis. Of the 36 participants aged 65 to 89 years, 47.2% were women, 66.7% had a spouse or partner, and 86.1% were middle-income earners. We categorised findings into four domains: demographic, socioeconomic, sociocultural, and socioenvironmental factors. Demographic factors such as older age, ageism, women’s gender roles, and singlehood or widowhood were perceived to influence mobility decline among older adults negatively. However, most Canadian participants perceived no gender-related influence, highlighting the cultural differences in perspectives between the two groups. Socioeconomic factors (education, occupation type, and income), sociocultural factors (traditional dietary patterns, religious practices, and social participation), and socioenvironmental factors (urban versus rural living conditions, housing, and climatic challenges) were also perceived to influence the mobility trajectories of older adults. Most Canadians perceived poorer mobility among rural dwellers, while Nigerians believed the converse. We also documented the recommendations that participants made for mitigating mobility decline, including their advocacy for supportive environments and policies that recognise the unique sociodemographic contexts of older adults. Sociodemographic factors may disproportionately influence mobility decline. Policymakers can enhance equity in ageing experiences by implementing age-friendly community initiatives that support the mobility of older adults, especially in low-resource and rural areas. Not applicable.