Pathways to mobility: connecting older adults to active transportation in Toronto
Download our report to learn how we explored ways to get more Toronto seniors cycling to make cycling more inclusive, equitable, and accessible for those aged 65+ by achieving these three objectives:
- Build awareness among older adults through outreach to gain insights on their experiences and motivations on cycling.
- Evaluate City of Toronto’s policies and plans that support active transportation and seniors' health and wellbeing.
- Develop practical recommendations that will improve access to cycling among seniors.
Our report examines the health benefits, risks, and barriers to cycling for older adults. It draws on available literature, survey data, and insights from outreach activities. It also examines Toronto's policies and programs: The Third Seniors Strategy, Toronto Public Health’s Strategic Plan (2024-2028), Vision Zero Road Safety Plan, TransformTO Net Zero Strategy, Cycling Network Plan, and Bike Share Toronto.
What We Learned
- Safety concerns are the biggest barrier.
- Older adults want to bike more and need access and support.
- Access to e-bikes and adaptive styles is critical to expand access.
- Older adults don’t identify as “seniors”—language matters
Toronto can increase seniors cycling by:
- Redefining what mobility means for older adults is needed to improve mobility and transportation options.
- Integrating senior programming with wider public programming to expand access to older adults who don’t view themselves as “seniors”.
- Investing in growing the culture of cycling is as important as implementing safe cycling infrastructure.
Read the entire report by clicking this link.
