Attached
Background Perceived risks of road injury can reduce opporiiuii
ties for social participation and physical activity among older
people. These risks are particularly important in low and middle
income countries undergoing rapid motorization. This study
aimed to explore older peoples’ perceptions of opportunities and
challenges for social participation, particularly including transport-related risks, in the Moneragala district of Sri Lanka. The
Provincial Council of this region has initiated a process to make
the district age and disability-friendly.
Methods This qualitative study involved four focus group discussions (8-10 participants in each) with community-dwelling older
people aged 60 years and older. The research sought to identify
perceived physical and social environmental facilitators and challenges that influenced ease of access to the local and regional destinations that are most important to respondents.
Results Places frequently visited by older people were the hnspi
tal, temple, Sunday fair, community hall and bank. The common
est modes of transportation used by respondents included die
public bus, walking, and hired three-wheeled vehicles. Paniiipants identified several challenges that increased their exposure
to injuries and perceptions of safety including poor mad
conditions, lack of a disability-friendly transportation system,
poor accessibility and negative attitudes of the wider community,
('(inclusions The perceptions and experiences reported by older
Si i Lankans emphasise the need to develop and implement road
designs, infrastructure and age- and disability- friendly transportation systems; public policies that enhance accessibility; and rajse
public awareness of the needs and aspirations of older people.
These efforts would have the potential to promote resilient communities that enable vulnerable communities at risk of social
exclusion, particularly older people, to live the lives they value.
