Grant: Summer Program in Aging

With an aging population, 20 percent of Canadians will be 65 years or older by 2026. The aging process is often associated with the development of chronic diseases that can limit the ability to participate in everyday activities, including driving. Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most individuals, providing a sense of independence and freedom. Conversely, driving cessation (terminated license) has been associated with loneliness, depression, reduced quality of life, and institutionalization. When individuals are no longer safe to drive, they depend on alternative transportation such as carpooling with friends/family members or public services. Typically, these services are only offered in urban settings. Rural and small communities often have no access to transportation, making it difficult for older adults to access healthcare or participate in social activities. This is further compounded by the fact that the population of rural and small communities is generally older and living with chronic diseases. Moreover, national surveys (e.g., Canadian Community Health Survey) contain cross-sectional data (collected at one time) and not longitudinal data (collected more than once over extended time), making it difficult to examine if transportation problems can lead to changes in health, accessing healthcare services, or social activities. The proposed research project aims to use data from the Canadian Community Health Survey and Canadian Longitudinal Survey on Aging to examine changes in health leading to driving cessation and the health indicators (depression) in those with vs without access to transportation following driving cessation, while controlling for age or gender. Findings from the proposed research project may inform the development of sustainable transportation plans/support to improve the mobility and wellbeing of small and rural communities across Canada.