Perspectives of Older Adult Cyclists on E-bikes As a Way to Prolong Mobility

Abstract

In Canada, population aging will become an increasingly challenging issue as the proportion of the senior population is rapidly growing where it is expected to increase from 15.6% to 23% of Country’s total population by 2030 (Government of Canada, 2019). This growth Indicates a greater need to ensure that Canadian cities provide opportunities for older adults to age-in-place as these cities lack the density and connectivity needed to encourage active trips (Barnett et al. 2017; Cerin et al. 2017). This study investigates how e-bikes and e-trikes can prolong older adult mobility to support aging-in-place using the following research objectives: i) understand how older adults’ perceptions and experiences that influence their future adoption; ii) To investigate which technological aspects of e-bikes and/or e-trikes are supportive for older rider; and, iii) To examine the built environment determinants of e-bikes and/or e-trike use among older adult riders. The qualitative approach used a modified go-along interview method to explore the thoughts and experiences of e-bikes and e-trikes from older adult cyclists using targeted sampling techniques (Palinkas et al., 2015). The study reached saturation after a total of 12 older adult cyclists were interviewed using the modified go-along process. The findings of this study found that e-bikes and e-trikes can prolong older adult mobility, allowing them to age-in-place in Canadian communities. It was due to their ability to reduce the barriers associated with cycling, allowing older adults to maintain their social relationships and overall health. Although the technology itself can prolong mobility, the place has an equally important role in facilitating their use through clear policies and supportive cycling infrastructure. This study provides recommendations for older adult e-bike adoption.