Submission ID 118338
| Issue/Objective | Globally, we are witnessing a rapid shift toward urbanization alongside an increasing demand for mental health services. As the global population ages, particularly with baby boomers becoming the dominant age group, there is a pressing need to understand how the built environment serves the mental health needs of older adults. Racialized immigrant older adults represent a uniquely vulnerable and often overlooked demographic in both urban planning and mental health policy. Existing literature in psychology and human geography highlights both direct and indirect relationships between the built environment and mental health outcomes (Evans, 2003). However, few studies have examined how intersecting identity markers-such as age, race, gender, immigration status, and culture-collectively shape these experiences. This study aims to center the voices of racialized immigrant older adults and explore how built spaces act as both barriers and bridges to their mental well-being. |
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| Methodology/Approach | Using qualitative semi-structured interviews, ten racialized immigrant older adults living in Mississauga, Ontario, were virtually interviewed. Participants were recruited through community organizations and social media. The interviews explored how their interactions with the built environment, including public infrastructure, transportation, and community spaces, impacted their mental health, along with gathering recommendations on changes and services they would like to see in their community. A thematic analysis approach was used to identify key patterns and insights. |
| Results | Preliminary findings reveal that participants experience built environments as both isolating and empowering. Barriers included safety concerns, deteriorating infrastructure, limited access to culturally safe public spaces, and exclusion from municipal planning processes. However, green spaces, accessible transit, and community hubs were consistently cited as essential supports for mental well-being. Across interviews, participants called for more culturally responsive planning and stronger representation of older adult services in urban development. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | This study underscores the need for people-centered, equity-focused approaches in urban design and mental health policy. As emphasized by the WHO- age-friendly cities initiative, supportive physical and social environments are essential for health and longevity. Findings from this study inform future policy, programming, and research on aging, mental health, and inclusive city planning. This research offers actionable, community-driven insights for advancing global health equity and social impact. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Maimoona Haseeb McMaster University Maimoona Haseeb McMaster University |
