Perception of parks and trails as mobility facilitators and transportation walking in older adults: a study using digital geographical maps.

Background: Transportation walking represents a promising target for physical activity promotion in older adults. Perceived characteristics of the neighbourhood physical environment may affect older adults' choice of transportation mode for a routine activity such as walking to the grocery store.

Aims: To (1) evaluate associations between older adults' perception of parks and trails as outdoor mobility facilitators and transportation walking, specifically to the grocery store; and (2) explore whether the spatial relationship between people's home, perceived facilitator and store was relevant for their transportation choice.