Travel behaviour of mobility-impaired elderly people in rural areas of Germany

Abstract

Mobility is of great importance to the elderly. Physical impairments increase with age and may lead to a loss of independence. For the development of supportive measures, it is necessary to obtain a detailed picture of this age group’s mobility patterns. Using the nationwide survey “Mobility in Germany 2008” as a basis, the mobility of elderly people in rural areas will thus be examined in detail. We show that mobility varies depending on age, gender and physical impairment. Women aged over 75 are particularly limited in their mobility options in the countryside. In order to enable this group in particular to have long, independent lives in old age, it is necessary to develop solutions that will meet their needs. Measures to increase transport safety can also make an important contribution to this end.