Transportation Alternatives of the Elderly after Driving Cessation

Abstract

Rapid growth of the older population poses a significant challenge in transportation. This study investigated stated transportation alternatives of the elderly, age 65 and older, when they can no longer drive; the data are from a national survey conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons in 2004. Using a multinomial logit model, this study analyzed various personal, household, and neighborhood environmental factors associated with transportation alternatives. The study found that getting a ride was the most preferred mode of transportation, regardless of the residential environment. Females were less likely to consider public transit or walking as their preferred transportation alternatives when they could no longer drive, and Hispanics were more likely to consider public transit as their alternative. The elderly with high incomes had a higher propensity toward walking when they were no longer able to drive. Walking was more popular among urban elderly residents. Public transit accessibility increased the propensity toward public transit use, and greater accessibility to activity locations within walking distance increased the propensity toward walking. Finally, the elderly were less likely to consider public transit and walking as their alternatives when they ceased driving if they had never been without transportation.