É caminhando que se observa: um estudo sobre a percepção da pessoa idosa no centro histórico de São João Del-Rei (MG)

Abstract

Walking should be recognized as a promising mode of transportation, capable of promoting quality of life, well-being, citizenship, and equity in urban spaces. However, guaranteeing universal access to this practice still represents a major challenge, especially when considering urban spaces intended for elderly people, who may have permanent or temporary mobility restrictions. This aspect becomes more evident in historic colonial urban centers, whose architecture and urban relations were neither inclusive nor designed to accommodate individual active and motorized travel. Such contexts impose physical and symbolic barriers to the full exercise of the right to come and go, through actions that reconcile heritage preservation and inclusion. In this sense, the general objective of this research is to analyze walkability from the perspective of elderly pedestrians in relation to the conditions of circulation spaces in the historic center of São João Del-Rei (MG). This study adopted a combined methodological approach, articulating different data collection techniques. Initially, a questionnaire was applied to capture the views of older adults on the urban circulation environment, based on the best-worst scaling (BWS) technique. Subsequently, guided walkthroughs were conducted along pre-defined routes, followed by individual interviews with the target audience to observe their impressions and experiences during the journey. The analyses were structured based on four thematic pillars: "accessibility," "attractiveness," "road safety," and "perceived safety." After these stages, a final discussion was held with the focus group participants to identify the main challenges they face that compromise the quality of their commute and, based on this, to propose urban planning guidelines for the investigated area. All collected data were systematized and represented cartographically to support future interventions and foster a qualified debate about the urban environment and its deficiencies for the older population. The results revealed weaknesses in all four pillars evaluated, with greater emphasis on accessibility, marked by the absence of sidewalks, adequate paving, and ramps. Problems related to road safety were also highlighted, including the lack of signage and pedestrian crossings, and perceived safety, reflected in the absence of public lighting and a feeling of insecurity at night. Furthermore, the presence of improperly discarded litter on the streets, a scarcity of vegetation, and precarious urban infrastructure due to lack of maintenance were observed. The lack of urban drainage in various parts of the historical center and the presence of clogged drains were also recurring issues. The proposed urban planning guidelines directly address the gaps identified in these areas, demonstrating the need for urban spaces that are more sensitive to older people. The relevance of this research is justified not only by the choice of the topic addressed, but above all by valuing the perceptions of those involved, recognizing their active role in building more inclusive, welcoming, and accessible cities. By creating and strengthening urban environments dedicated to older people, we contribute to improving the quality of urban life for the entire society.