Influence of Living Spaces and Sociodemographic Factors on Older Adults' Mobility and Autonomy: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chile

BACKGROUND Mobility within living spaces is essential for active and healthy aging, supporting autonomy and overall quality of life. However, sociodemographic and environmental factors can significantly shape how older adults utilize these spaces. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the relationship between living space utilization and sociodemographic characteristics in older adults, and to identify key barriers that may restrict mobility and independence. METHODOLOGY A cross-sectional study was conducted in Copiapó, Chile, involving 403 community-dwelling adults aged 60 to 91. The Life Space Assessment (LSA) questionnaire was used to evaluate spatial mobility across five levels, from bedroom to beyond city limits. Sociodemographic, health, and physical activity data were also collected. Multiple linear regression was applied to identify factors influencing mobility. RESULTS Most participants reported high independence, with frequent use of indoor spaces (97.5%) and immediate outdoor areas (91.4%). Mobility decreased in neighborhood (54%) and city-level environments. Regression analysis revealed that sex (B = -8.752, p = 0.004), age (B = -0.462, p = 0.009), and use of assistive devices (B = -19.539, p < 0.001) were significant negative predictors of mobility. Education and income were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Older adults in this study demonstrated preserved autonomy in proximal environments, but reduced mobility in broader urban settings. These findings highlight the importance of creating age-friendly environments and targeted interventions to promote outdoor mobility and independence, particularly among older women and individuals using assistive devices.