Selby Coxon

Understanding Current and Future Transport Needs of Older Australian Drivers to Guide Development of Sustainable and Smart Initiatives to Support Safe Mobility of Older Adults

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 13-05-2022

DOI: 10.3390/SU14105906

Abstract: Access to adequate and appropriate transport options enables older people to continue as thriving community participants, to reach services and to maintain social connections. While transport needs are erse, and tend to change over time, there is little information on current and future transport patterns, and the awareness, acceptance and adoption of new technologies. A national online survey was administered to current drivers in Australia. A s le of 705 drivers provided information on available travel modes and use of these modes, awareness of in-vehicle technologies and future use of vehicle technologies. The findings revealed high use of private vehicles, walking and taxis but little use of other travel modes (bicycles, motorcycles, rideshare, community services and public transport). Age, gender and residential location influenced the availability and use otential use of some transport options. Overall awareness of in-vehicle technologies was generally low and particularly so amongst older and female participants. There was some appetite to use emerging technologies in the future. The findings inform the development of effective strategies and initiatives aligned with healthy ageing and wellbeing targets, increased sustainability, resilience and connectedness, creation of healthier travel choices and healthier environments to promote acceptance and use of a range of transport options and uptake of safer vehicles equipped with in-vehicle technologies to ultimately enhance safe and sustainable mobility of older road users.

Monash University

Location: Australia

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Monash University - Caulfield Campus

Location: Australia

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Industrial Transformation Research Hubs - Grant ID: IH180100010

Start Date: 07-2019

End Date: 06-2025

Amount: $4,918,357.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP200100296

Start Date: 09-2021

End Date: 08-2025

Amount: $1,023,008.00

Funder: Australian Research Council