From Awareness to Participation: Diffusion of Innovation and Engagement of Older People in Barrier-Free Communities in Zhuhai, China

Barrier-free communities aim to let older adults and people with disabilities participate equally in city life by removing physical, informational, and service barriers. This study examines how older people in Zhuhai, China, learn about and act on barrier-free initiatives. A qualitative design grounded in diffusion of innovations was used. Fieldwork ran from January 2022 to January 2024 and included semi structured interviews with 11 participants aged 65 to 70, averaging 95 minutes, plus sustained nonparticipant observation at community sites. Grounded theory guided analysis through open, axial, and selective coding to link media channels with stages of conceptual recognition. Findings show a layered channel mix. Mass media provides authority, digital platforms expand reach, and interpersonal ties supply reassurance and practical steps. Understanding and participation rise where visible upgrades are present and procedures are simple, but stall where resources are thin or publicity outpaces delivery. The study recommends pairing physical retrofits with clear communication, digital helpdesks, and simple ways for residents to review and test changes, so recognition turns into routine use.