PURPOSE: The present pilot study examines the impact of group transit training for older adults in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, between 2005 and 2006. METHODS: Data were collected from 41 participants, randomly assigned to three groups: 1) a control group that received no group transit training or free bus pass, 2) a group receiving group transit training only, and 3) a group receiving group transit training and a free bus pass. Participants were followed longitudinally for 1 year. RESULTS: No differences were found between groups in days or miles driven per week when comparing self-reported data prior to and 3 months following the intervention. However, there was a difference in self-reported bus use across groups; both groups who received group transit training used the bus more frequently, X(2) (2)=10.89, p<.01. CONCLUSION: This preliminary investigation suggests that transit training may be effective at increasing the use of public transportation for older adults.
RCT Entities:
PURPOSE: The present pilot study examines the impact of group transit training for older adults in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, between 2005 and 2006. METHODS: Data were collected from 41 participants, randomly assigned to three groups: 1) a control group that received no group transit training or free bus pass, 2) a group receiving group transit training only, and 3) a group receiving group transit training and a free bus pass. Participants were followed longitudinally for 1 year. RESULTS: No differences were found between groups in days or miles driven per week when comparing self-reported data prior to and 3 months following the intervention. However, there was a difference in self-reported bus use across groups; both groups who received group transit training used the bus more frequently, X(2) (2)=10.89, p<.01. CONCLUSION: This preliminary investigation suggests that transit training may be effective at increasing the use of public transportation for older adults.