In 2001, one in six deaths through traffic accidents involved people aged over 65. Today this figure has increased to one in four. In urban areas, where accident rates have hardly reduced in the past 10 years, deaths of the over 64s form the largest age bracket. Accidents of the over 74s are the most worrying problem in cities. It is true that this is partly owing to the aging population in general, but in any event, it is clear that safety of the elderly must be improved. Fundación Mapfre has carried out a study which reflects on this accident rate and on the relation existing between the design of streets and roads and the safety of drivers and elderly pedestrians: their most frequent ailments, their subjective perception of risk and their knowledge of traffic signs. It also includes the opinion of expert doctors and psychologists, the the advice and international experience on the subject... As a final contribution, a "Manual of Recommendations of Urban Road Design - The Perspective of the Elderly" has been drawn-up with a total of 26 cards representing different traffic situations. The manual aims to become a useful, everyday tool for municipal traffic experts, construction and traffic management companies, heads of establishments and services addressed to the elderly. (Author/publisher)
Abstract