Removing Barriers for Seniors at Transit Stops and Stations and the Potential for Transit Ridership Growth

As the baby boomer generation ages there is an increased need for older adult sensitive transportation. Currently a small percentage of older adults utilize public transit; however, the utilization rates are likely to increase as the corresponding population of older adults increases. Older adults are a diverse population and it is likely that future generations of older adults will require a wider range of transit options. The current research addresses (i) barriers for older adults at transit stops and stations, and (ii) older adult public transit habits and attitudes. This discussion presents the initial findings of a survey on urban older adults’ transit habits and attitudes. The preliminary findings suggest that older adults do not have enough information they require in order to access public transit, older adults are primarily concerned with real or perceived crime while utilizing public transit, and that older adults would be likely to ride public transit if the right conditions were met. Further research and actions are suggested to complete the understanding of older adult transit habits and needs.