Accessibility challenges for older adults in South Manchester: a capability approach

Accessibility is critical in achieving sustainable and equitable transport systems. This study investigates the accessibility of older adults, a group that has received little attention in the accessibility literature yet faces significant mobility barriers. Following qualitative approaches, including interviews and open-ended questionnaires, and employing the Accessibility as a Capability framework (AaaC) and Transport-Related Social Exclusion (TRSE) dimensions, the study analyses the opportunities and barriers older adults face in accessing transport systems in six wards of South Manchester. Results reveal the crucial role of individual abilities and perceptions in converting resources into access. Analysis of travel experiences showed that even when accessibility appears high, older adults may still expend a significant amount of effort to gain accessibility, particularly through emotional ‘work’ caused by transport-related fear and stress. The findings suggest a focus on the subjective aspects of travel to remove barriers to accessibility and improve access to valued capabilities while creating more equitable and sustainable transport systems.