Preferences and behaviour of pedestrians and cyclists by age and gender

Preferences and behaviour of older pedestrians and cyclists (women and men, 70 years and above) in cities were studied by means of a questionnaire, and was compared to a group of people aged 40-49. The older respondents appreciate pedestrian crossings, signalized intersections and cycle paths significantly more than the younger respondents do. To a larger extent they feel that it is dangerous to cross the road where these facilities are missing. The older pedestrians also find the presence of a pavement very important on their route, whereas the younger pedestrians more often focus on a fast passage. Differences in preferences and behaviour within the group of older respondents can be related to differences in health and physical abilities rather than to differences in age and gender. The older road users seem to be more influenced by the fact that an action is illegal than the younger road users are. In several instances they more often give this reason for refraining from an act than the younger respondents. They also more often use the argument that they act in a specific way, because it makes them feel safer. And finally they more often express doubts about their own abilities. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.