Older people and mobility

Training for public transport passengers in Salzburg

The ageing of society is one of the biggest challenges facing Europe in the decades to come. Although it receives little public attention, this demographic change has major implications for mobility patterns as well. As today's car-driving generation gradually retires, it is a major challenge to bring these active older people from the private car to sustainable and energy-efficient modes of transport. This includes walking, cycling and public transport – but also innovative schemes such as car sharing and public bicycles.

AENEAS followed the concept of the "multi-modal senior traveller", using all means of transport according to his/her requirements. This provides far more autonomy and flexibility to an ageing person than reliance on the private car only. Driving a car can become difficult, or even impossible, for older people, who therefore need to be able to find and use attractive alternatives. AENEAS considered itself an enabling and encouraging project, addressing all ageing persons – whether they are 50 or 100 years old.

Shifting to more sustainable means of transport not only leads to less urban congestion, safer roads and better air quality, but also contributes to personal autonomy and physical well being – walking and cycling being healthier than sitting in a traffic jam. However, in order to accomplish this change, a number of specific issues need to be dealt with to fulfil the requirements of older people. These issues include:

• Financial aspects;

• Medical aspects;

• Societal aspects (e.g. the cohabitation of generations, awareness raising among younger generations about the problems of older people); and

• Security aspects.

Last, but not least, older people have to be convinced and motivated to use alternatives to the private car. After all, this improves their health and saves money, too.

You can read more information about the specific issues relating to the mobility of older people on the websites of the following AENEAS partners:

• The European Older People's Platform

• Centre for Generations and Accessibility, Salzburg

• European Metropolitan Transport Authorities

• Green City

• City of Odense