What's mode got to do with it? Exploring the links between public transport and car access and opportunities for everyday activities among older people

The aim of this study is to explore the links between modal options and opportunities to participate in everyday activities among people aged 65-79 and living in Sweden's large metropolitan regions (Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmo). This incorporated a specific focus on those considered at a greater risk of transport-related social exclusion. This study applies the Capability Approach as a conceptual framework and employs a mixed methods element. A multinomial logistic regression was conducted in order to identify the characteristics associated with the respective modal options. Five independent variables produced statistically significant results: cohabiting, perceived health condition, income, region of residence and gender. Findings indicate a lower level of satisfaction with both the quantity and quality of modal options among those who do not have public transport as a modal option. The results suggest that those who do not have public transport as a modal option are less inclined to have the capability of carrying out all everyday activities of value. The qualitative strand uncovers the salience of the absence of having the possibility to carry out active physical exercise, with many highlighting that health issues and transport/infrastructure problems constitute barriers to having the possibility to participate in such activities. Deficiencies in the public transport service was the most common reason provided as to why public transport is not a modal option for some. These results bring us closer to understanding the role different modal options can have in facilitating capabilities of value and continued participation in society among older people.