Project Need and Approach
The United States is experiencing rapid growth in its older population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of individuals aged 65 and older is expected to reach 73.1 million by 2030, compared to 49.2 million in 2016. This demographic shift has led to increasing concerns about pedestrian safety; older adults are at greater risk of fatalities and injuries due to age-related declines in sensory, cognitive, and physical abilities. Studies show that cognitive decline, including difficulties with attention and decision-making, plays a significant role in their safety at midblock crossings. In Texas, pedestrian fatalities and injuries among older adults have risen significantly, with a 230 percent increase in older pedestrian deaths and serious injuries reported between 2011 and 2021.
To address this growing concern, this initiative focused on improving pedestrian safety for individuals aged 65 and older through targeted outreach and infrastructure recommendations. Research suggested that targeted interventions, such as improving infrastructure with features like refuge islands and clearer signage, can help address these issues. The approach included identifying high-risk factors, assessing safety challenges, and developing educational materials to enhance awareness and support safer pedestrian practices for this vulnerable group.
Project Activities
The key objective of this project was to conduct outreach activities in communities where older pedestrian crashes were overrepresented. During the outreach sessions, the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s Center for Transportation Safety team presented high-risk factors for older pedestrian crashes and safety recommendations to reduce these risks. The project team began by conducting a comprehensive literature review to identify risk factors and characteristics specific to older pedestrians. This review informed the development of a safety assessment, targeting locations with a high incidence of older pedestrian crashes. Key findings highlighted challenges such as slower walking speeds, reduced decision-making abilities, and risks at midblock crossings with higher vehicle speeds.
Based on the findings, the team developed an educational brochure aimed at older pedestrians. The brochure included safety recommendations, facts, and tips to mitigate risks and improve safety awareness. Outreach sessions were conducted in communities where older pedestrian crashes were overrepresented, providing targeted safety recommendations and raising awareness about high-risk factors in real-world contexts. Ultimately, 13 educational activities were conducted and included engaging discussions featuring a mix of games designed to reinforce key safety messages.
Benefits to Texas Transportation Safety
This initiative was able to reach its target demographic of older pedestrians by directly engaging with high-risk populations in defined Texas locations. By providing tailored recommendations and educational materials, safety and preventive measures were emphasized within the elderly community, mitigating future risks. The insights gained will guide future efforts to enhance pedestrian infrastructure and reduce fatalities among this growing demographic.
Project Title: Pedestrian Safety Improvement of Older Vulnerable Users in Texas
Project Start and End Dates: October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
Author List: Myunghoon Ko
Sponsor/Funding Source: Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)