Transport-related social exclusion amongst older people in rural Southwest England and Wales: Fid-Bau Portal

Transport-related social exclusion amongst older people in rural Southwest England and Wales

Shergold, Ian / Parkhurst, Graham

Abstract Rural dwelling and older age are both associated with a higher risk of social exclusion, with accessibility identified as having an important facilitating role. The interactions between transport-related exclusion and older age, particularly in a rural context, are considered though analysis of quantitative and qualitative data collected from over 900 older persons living in rural areas of Southwest England and Wales. Although few respondents reported feeling excluded within their communities, more reported difficulties in accessing specific necessary and discretionary activities, including specialist hospitals and cinemas. Analysis revealed that car availability is not a strong indicator of overall inclusion, although non-availability was important in limiting access to particular types of location. It is concluded that the relatively short travel distances required to access community activities was a key factor in the high levels of community inclusion. However, the car-dependent nature of travel overall means that there is a rising risk of mobility-related exclusion in rural areas, particularly amongst the oldest old. Greater consideration needs to be given to more formalised lift-giving as a transport solution, along with greater attention to mobility needs by sector-specific service providers, such as the health sector.

Highlights ► Social exclusion due to transport reasons is assessed for older citizens in six rural areas in the UK. ► Rurality is found to have a small, statistically significant effect on overall exclusion. ► Car availability had greater influence than age on difficulty in accessing essential services. ► The growing number of older old suggests a growing accessibility deficit particularly in rural areas. ► Policy should consider active travel and organised lift-sharing alongside public transport solutions.