Staying mobile in old age is, amongst others, a key determinant of health, social participation, and quality of life. However, psychological attitudes toward out-of-home mobility in later life are not fully understood. Thus, the aim of our study is to analyze mobility-related behavioral flexibility and routines (MBFR) from a person-environment-interaction perspective in the context of everyday mobility behavior. Data was drawn from face-to-face interviews and trip diaries with 211 community-dwelling elders aged 65 years and older in the city of Stuttgart, Germany. Statistical analysis using structural equation modelling revealed a strong association of MBFR with several mobility indicators, e.g., the number of weekly trips. This positive effect of MBFR on out-of-home mobility was particularly higher in the subgroup of older participants with functional limitations. Moreover, MBFR was strongly linked to well-being. Our results emphasize the importance of mobility-related attitudes for adaptation and maintenance of an independent life in old age.
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