The United States population is aging: the 65-and-older population grew by over a third from 2010 to 2019. This growing aging adult population impacts communities and planning decisions for transportation and recreation. Many older adults prefer to age in place (remaining in their homes instead of moving to a new location) yet they face physiological changes that can present mobility challenges. Older adults may choose or need to stop driving and instead rely on alternative modes of transportation. Walking and bicycling may introduce new mobility challenges for older adults due to decreased response time, vision issues, reduced muscular range of motion, and risk of falls. Sidewalks, pathways, and crossings that can be easy for a younger person to navigate may be more difficult for an older person. Traffic signals may not provide sufficient time to cross at an intersection and cracks in sidewalks can introduce tripping hazards. Increased frailty that comes with the aging process makes older adults particularly vulnerable to injury and death if they are involved in a crash.

At the same time, communities can take action to prioritize the mobility and safety of older adults. Physical activity, like walking and bicycling, can help prevent feelings of social isolation, build and maintain strength, balance, and physical endurance, and make it possible to access destinations without relying on a motor vehicle. The challenge for communities is to provide transportation networks that accommodate the needs of an aging population.

Resources

65 and Older Population Grows Rapidly as Baby Boomers Age
United States Census Bureau
The U.S. Census Bureau today released estimates showing the nation’s 65-and-older population has grown rapidly since 2010, driven by the aging of Baby Boomers born between 1946 and 1964.

Using Data to Tell Stories and Make the Case
National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)
Summarizes key takeaways from the "When Numbers Talk" conference session.

AARP Livable Communities Program
AARP Livable Communities
Describes a livable community and how AARP is working with local leaders nationwide to make communities more livable for people of all ages.

National Aging and Disability Transportation Center
National Aging and Disability Transportation Center
Promotes transportation options for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers.

Age-Friendly Transportation Options
AARP
Offers examples of affordable, accessible transit services from AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.

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Examples

Delivery Cyborg Pushed Off Toronto, Canada Streets Over Safety and Accessibility Concerns
Treehugger
Reports that 10-pound delivery cyborgs (a robot-like machine piloted remotely by a human using a computer and a joystick) are banned from Toronto, Canada streets.

Multiple Effects of E-Biking on Older Adults Observational Study
Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice
Studies Flemish and Dutch older adults to examine the effects of starting to e-bike on total and conventional biking frequencies, walking for transport, self-rated health, functionality and life space area.

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