The patterns of activity, and transport to activities among older adults in Singapore

Abstract Background: Engagement in occupations is important, and appropriate transportation modes are necessary for continued activity participation in the community. The aim of this study was to explore the patterns of activity and transportation methods used by older adults and the links between their transport use and activity engagement in Singapore. Methods: Fifty-six participants aged 50 years and older recorded in a time diary (in English or Mandarin) their activity participation over 24 hours on a weekday or weekday and weekend day. Data on the participants’ out-of-home activities were analyzed using parametric statistics, including Student t-tests and analyses of variance, along with visual inspection of the data. Results: No significant difference was found between time spent out of the house on weekdays and weekends on the variables of sex, age, and self-reported health status, and between living situation and time spent out of the house for drivers and nondrivers. The participants undertook a wide variety of activities including work, singing with friends, and shopping, and most frequently left their house to shop, exercise, or meet family/friends or participate in leisure activities. The participants were found to be able to use several transportation methods to access these activities, and they were satisfied with how they traveled to them. Conclusion: This study contributes to the understanding of the activity engagement of older adults in Singapore. It has highlighted participants’ engagement in neighborhood activities and the importance and preference to walk or use public transportation to access activities. Additionally, this study has highlighted the need to consider the issues surrounding occupational performance in older adults.