University of Bath research shows pedestrian crossings may be too fast for older adults
The walking speeds of many older adults fall below the pace needed to cross
Pedestrian crossings in the UK may not give older people and those with mobility issues enough time to safely cross the road, according to new research.
A study by researchers at the Universities of Bath, Birmingham, and Exeter revealed that the walking speeds of many older adults fall below the pace needed to cross within the green signal time allowed by most crossings.
The findings, based on data from 1,110 adults aged 65 and over, showed that the average walking speed for participants was 0.77 metres per second.
This is significantly slower than the 1.2 m/s walking speed assumed by the design of most pedestrian crossings, which gives people less time than they may require.
For a 5-metre road, the average participant would take 6.5 seconds to cross at their comfortable walking speed, over two seconds longer than most green light intervals.
Alarmingly, only 1.5% of older adults with mobility limitations walked fast enough to meet these time requirements.
Dr Max Western, Senior Lecturer from the University of Bath, and lead researcher for the study, said: “Current crossing times might be unrealistic for many older people who face challenges with their mobility. This isn’t just a safety issue – it’s potentially a barrier to independence, physical activity, and social connection, all of which often decline in later life.”
The study also found that factors such as older age, reduced strength, and limited balance often contributed to slower walking speeds. Over half of participants would need to increase their walking speed by 50% or more to safely cross an average UK road.
Designing spaces for inclusivity
Recognising the implications of their findings, the researchers have called for changes to crossing times and the urban environment to better accommodate older adults and those with mobility challenges.
Professor Afroditi Stathi from the University of Birmingham, who led the two research trials underpinning the study, said: “Older adults often face challenges staying active and connected, especially when mobility is reduced. Designing outdoor spaces that work for everyone – such as allowing enough time to cross the road – can boost confidence, support independence, and help them remain engaged in their communities – all key to a better quality of life.”
To help address these challenges, the study recommends that green signal times be adjusted to account for a walking speed of 0.7 m/s. This small change could help more people cross safely and improve confidence.
The researchers are also calling for urban design standards to be restructured with inclusivity in mind. Suggestions include age-friendly measures like extended crossing intervals, improved pedestrian safety features, and the creation of walkable spaces with features like benches to encourage physical activity.
While innovative features such as smart crossings and countdown timers are emerging, the research team emphasised that these technologies need to be implemented with inclusivity at their core to ensure they benefit those most in need. They warn that without targeted design and public awareness, such tools may fail to address the issues highlighted by their research.