Title

European experts' view on senior citizens mobility conditions and solutions

Authors

Lidia Zakowska

Document Type

Conference Paper

Publication Date

2007

Subject Area

Infrastructure - Facilities, Infrastructure - Low Floor, Infrastructure - Toilets, Location - Europe, Mobility - Independence, Population - Seniors

Abstract

This work presents results of the research project SIZE (Life quality of senior citizens in relation to mobility conditions), funded by the EC within the 5th framework programme, RTD programme “quality of life and living resources”, key action “the ageing population and disabilities”, contract No QLK6-CT-2002-02399 . Nine research partners (representing eight European countries, namely Austria, Czech, Ireland, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and Sweden), supported by five senior’s organizations, participated in the project SIZE during forty months, 2003-2006. The general objectives of SIZE are to explain and describe the present mobility and transport situation in Europe, to motivate action by the authorities and other relevant groups in society who are, or feel, responsible in this area, and to identify relevant solutions for existing problems and to provide guidance for setting up and implementing policies aimed at “keeping the elderly mobile”. The methodology used in SIZE project, including a combination of focus group interviews, in-depth interviews and standardised questionnaires, conducted with seniors and experts target groups, together with workshops, proved to be successful. The experts results of the quantitative studies are here presented. 490 experts from eight European countries, representing decision-makers, politicians and technicians from the urban, road and transport planning and design, assessed existing mobility conditions, possible solutions and barriers to the successive implementation of proposed solutions. The results of SIZE revealed that urban infrastructure is often not adjusted to seniors’ needs, thus, seniors report difficulties with handling simple leaving conditions. Due to the technical progress, a lot of useful devices that enhance senior citizens’ mobility are employed in every day life. However, technical perspective is always connected with personal one, because seniors often manifest a strong fear to new devices and technologies. It was revealed that measures expected for implementation concern many diverse areas. Road and traffic infrastructure, as technical aspects of moving around is a very important factor determining senior citizens’ mobility. This statement is strongly supported by data gathered in all countries participating in SIZE project.