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M-CASTL 2008 Synthesis Report: Volume 1, Older Adult Mobility

The theme of the Michigan Center for Advancing Safe Transportation throughout the Lifespan (M-CASTL) is Safety and Mobility throughout the Lifespan. The purpose of the annual synthesis report is to identify short and long-term research needs that support the M-CASTL theme and reflect the US DOT’s national transportation research agenda. The intent of the reports is to help focus the Center’s research program and to maintain continuity over each year of the grant. The synthesis report also serves as the background for the annual M-CASTL Transportation Research and Education (TRE driving trends; traffic safety; mobility needs; medical conditions and medications; screening and assessment; education and rehabilitation; vehicles and advanced technology; roadway design; transitioning to non-driving; and alternative transportation options. This synthesis reviews some of what is known about maintaining older adult mobility and defines several areas where further research is needed. There are several themes that thread through this synthesis report. First, mobility is needed by all people. If mobility needs are not met by driving, then they must be met by other means. Second, older adults are not a homogeneous group. Older adults vary greatly in: the functional declines they may be experiencing; their ability to compensate for declines; their financial and social resources; and their personalities. All of these characteristics interact with the factors influencing safe mobility. Third, older adults, as well as all drivers, need lifelong education to maintain safe mobility. For the older adult, learning about roadway design changes, how to use advanced technology, and the transportation options available when driving is no longer possible is an important component in safe mobility. Fourth, research to help older adults stay mobile will also help younger drivers. Finally, meeting the mobility needs of an aging population is complex and will require the expertise and collaboration of several academic and applied disciplines. The M-CASTL will continue to provide these collaborative opportunities.