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Pedestrian Infrastructure and Older Adults
Older adults are more likely than any other
age group to die from being hit by a car, and also suffer more severe injuries due to their
increased fragility.[4] Many streets are not walkable for older adults and others with
limited mobility or physical challenges slower walking speeds, less peripheral vision,
limited hearing, and slower responses put them at greater risk. Older adults walk about
two and a half feet per second, versus four feet per second for average adults.[5] Streets that
are too wide, signals that don't allow enough time to cross, curb ramps that are too steep,
poorly located or non-existent, and uneven or blocked sidewalks make walking even
harder.
Good pedestrian infrastructure and walkable streets allow older adults to remain involved
in the community. They provide physical activity and access to an active lifestyle, and
social interaction and access to friends and community services.
4 Oakland Pedestrian Master Plan p 18
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