“I grew up on a bike”: Cycling and older adults

摘要: Abstract A large proportion of the growing population older adults have low levels physical activity and face ensuing health mobility problems. Cycling is a health-promoting widely accessible transportation option. However, throughout North America cycling rates amongst are extremely low. Evidence from European countries suggests that for possible can be popular travel choice. Therefore, we aimed to assess factors contribute trends American adults. We used mixed methods approach describe behaviors, facilitators barriers in highly bikeable area Vancouver, Canada. conducted cross-sectional study (age ≥60 years) who lived Vancouver’s downtown core. During September–October 2012, participants ( n =191) recorded 7-day diaries completed questionnaires on behaviors perceptions their neighborhood environments. depth interviews with subset =27) better understand how they travelled around neighborhoods. Participants demonstrated relatively high cycling; one four reported usual week. mode share was 3.2% (182/5730 trips). Notably, this three times higher than living region double general (all-ages) population. Based framework analysis interviews, facilitate include supportive infrastructure, history social aspects cycling. Factors were cycling, both those did not, focused safety, including motor vehicle traffic, cyclist behavior theft. Our results suggest should favorable policy environmental conditions exist, as form active may viable option