The puclic spaces and the accessibility under the point of view of the elderly people

Abstract

This work aims to identify and to evaluate the variables of physical and environmental characterization of the sidewalks and public spaces destined to the elderly people under the comfort aspects, safety and environmental conditions. The work was developed starting from data obtained through researches by applying the Delphi and the Stated Preference methods to the city of Barretos, SP. The data were collected firstly by sending questionnaires to the technicians of different areas related to the subject mobility and accessibility and in a second stage in the community and leisure centers for the elderly people more than 60 year old. The results of the research indicated the most important attributes of physical and environmental characterization of the sidewalks that can contribute to definition of plans and projects, seeking the facilitation of the people's accessibility with some disability or with reduced mobility and the identification of places where are necessary improvements and modifications in the available infrastructure. Keywords: accessibility, sidewalks, elderly people, Delphi´s method, stated preference.