OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to examine whether a persons' most frequently used mode of transportation is associated with life-space mobility and whether the association differs between persons with or without walking difficulties. METHOD: Life-space mobility was measured with the Life-Space Assessment in 848 community-dwelling men and women aged 75 to 90 years. Six separate mobility groups were formed according to the most frequently used mode of transportation (car driver, car passenger, public transportation) combined with the presence or absence of difficulties walking 2 km. RESULTS: Car drivers without walking difficulties had the highest life-space mobility scores, and car passengers with walking difficulties had the lowest scores. Mode of transportation influenced the odds for restricted life space differently depending on whether or not the person had walking difficulties. DISCUSSION: To support community mobility among older persons, it would be important to improve different transportation options to meet older persons' individual wishes, needs, and resources.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to examine whether a persons' most frequently used mode of transportation is associated with life-space mobility and whether the association differs between persons with or without walking difficulties. METHOD: Life-space mobility was measured with the Life-Space Assessment in 848 community-dwelling men and women aged 75 to 90 years. Six separate mobility groups were formed according to the most frequently used mode of transportation (car driver, car passenger, public transportation) combined with the presence or absence of difficulties walking 2 km. RESULTS: Car drivers without walking difficulties had the highest life-space mobility scores, and car passengers with walking difficulties had the lowest scores. Mode of transportation influenced the odds for restricted life space differently depending on whether or not the person had walking difficulties. DISCUSSION: To support community mobility among older persons, it would be important to improve different transportation options to meet older persons' individual wishes, needs, and resources.
Authors: Taina Rantanen; Milla Saajanaho; Laura Karavirta; Sini Siltanen; Merja Rantakokko; Anne Viljanen; Timo Rantalainen; Katja Pynnönen; Anu Karvonen; Inna Lisko; Lotta Palmberg; Johanna Eronen; Eeva-Maija Palonen; Timo Hinrichs; Markku Kauppinen; Katja Kokko; Erja Portegijs Journal: BMC Public Health Date: 2018-05-02 Impact factor: 3.295