Future of an Ageing Population

Future of an Ageing Population | Physical, Social and Technological Connectivity
were not involved at all 213 . In rural areas in particular, reliance on cars may be
due to a lack of public transport, difficulties in accessing available services and
perceptions of the unsuitability of public transport 214 .
Transport habits vary by age group. Reliance on cars remains consistent
throughout later life. While use of trains declines for older age groups, use
of buses increases. Free bus travel is a good example of a successful scheme
to improve the mobility of older people and reduce the need for car travel
while maintaining their independence – evidence suggests this has led to
an increased number of trips, improved wellbeing and produced economic
benefits of £2.87 for every £1 spent on bus passes 215 .
Proportion of distance travelled by mode (%)
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
All ages 50-59 60-69 70+
Age (years)
Transport mode:
Walk/Cycle
Car Driver
Car Passenger
Bus
Rail
Other
Survey of
17,000 people
Figure 7.4: Proportion of distance travelled per person per mode of transport by age group,
England, 2014 208 .
New technology has the potential to address some of the transport challenges
that arise from the ageing population. The trend towards people purchasing
transport as a service (as opposed to owning modes of transport such as a
car) is being facilitated by apps. Technology may also reduce older people’s
need to travel in the first place. Innovations such as social networks and
online shopping can provide social interaction and participation and access to
services without the need to leave home. However research does suggest that
online tools cannot fully recreate the social experience of actual travel 113 .
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