Implication of transit transfer to the older adults: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Extensive multimodal transportation network has resulted in widespread use of the transit transfer method of transportation among frequent travelers. In many parts of the world, transferring from one mode of transportation to another provides significant mobility advantage to people, commodities, and services in reaching their destination. However, there are some who have not reaped the benefits of this sophisticated transportation networking system. This study reviewed published articles on the implications of transit transfer on the older adults in order to gain a better understanding of this method of transportation and the nature of difficulties that it caused them. Methods: The following databases were searched: PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, ProQuest, WileyOnline, and Ovid. Inclusion criteria was English language, respondents aged 60 and above, living in community, and addressing transit transfer mode of transportations used, and the outcome on older adults. Review paper, letter, book citations, comments, editorials, experimental and animal studies were excluded from this review.Results: This review included six studies. According to the findings of this study, older adults were able to benefit from transit transfer as transportation method to reach their destination. It can also increase physical activity among the older adults through active commuting. However, older adults encountered a problem with transit transfer since they had to walk to reach each of the transport facilities. Transit transfers have also been shown to expose them to inconveniency pertaining to obstacle they faced while transit transfer.Conclusion: There are indications of positive and negative implications of transit transfer to older adults. More research should be conducted to further evaluate its risk and outcome to the older adults and to determine effective strategies to improve their intermodal transportation.