Carleton University

Purpose

The design of federally regulated transportation infrastructure and service plays a critical role in serving older adults. By 2051, one quarter of Canadians (almost 12M people) is expected to be aged 65 and older. Older adults may be more focused on goods and services related to travel (e.g., recreation, health) compared to other age groups, yet face risks related to long-distance transport PAGE 4 such as standing, sitting and walking for extended periods; or low experience with complex, poorly integrated travel systems; factors which may intensify preexisting health conditions. Currently there is no framework that systematically identifies risks, barriers, gaps, and recommendations to better support adults using federally regulated transportation. We’re developing and evaluating this framework with active participation from older adult stakeholders. In addressing the benefits travel brings through recreation, reuniting people, accessing healthcare or enabling work in later life, older adults can age better both in their communities and beyond.