Handicap et vieillissement en ville : Déplacements des personnes ayant des incapacités motrices

Abstract

Aging leads to biological changes, including motor disabilities, which can affect perceptions of autonomy. However, these changes should not prevent people from participating in society. An accessible urban environment is essential to ensure unimpeded mobility for people of all ages. In this paper, we examine how people with motor disabilities perceive their own mobility abilities in relation to the environmental conditions they encounter in urban areas. We analyse the impact of infrastructure and lifestyle habits on their autonomy. Our study is based on a mixed- methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collected from 35 people with motor disabilities, aged 20 to 86 and living in Quebec City. The results highlight how these persons perceive ageing in relation to travel, from the anticipation of necessary adaptations among the younger group to the experiences of the older group. The results reveal that the perception of mobility abilities does not depend solely on person characteristics but is the result of a dynamic interaction with the physical and social environment. As constraints increase with age, adjustments are necessary, either through strengthening individual skills or adapting the environment. By contributing to a better understanding of the interplay between personal, social, and environmental factors, our study aims to promote inclusion and enhance the quality of life of persons with motor disabilities throughout their lifespan.