The potential of low traffic measures for healthy active ageing

Abstract

Being and remaining active is reported to be positively associated with healthy ageing, though many older adults are not as active as they would like to be. Low Traffic Neighbourhoods have been identified as a possible solution to traffic-related activity barriers. This study aimed to explore this possibility, and the potential for these methods to support active ageing. 20 older adults aged between 60 and 91 (80 per cent women) took part in focus groups across low and high traffic areas. Discussions centred on experiences of staying active and perceptions of low traffic measures for facilitating activity. Six participants then took part in walking interviews across two areas, which explored some of the barriers and enablers to staying active. Staying active was found to be particularly important, though many participants suggested that a number of environmental barriers prevent them from being as active as they would like to be, in line with previous research. Many struggled to recognise the potential of low traffic measures, suggesting that there is a lack of consideration for older people within the planning process, particularly those with mobility issues. Future studies should focus on those with mobility issues in order to explore range of needs.

Keywords

• Active ageing
• walking
• barriers
• enablers
• low traffic measures
• qualitative