If you’re as fit as a flea, in your mid ‘80’s, and you’re just about to go up Mount Kilimanjaro on a pogo stick, then this article is, perhaps, not for you! Without question, many of the articles here at Regenerated Me are all about embracing our later years – and, where possible, actively reversing some of the less welcome physical aspects of ageing, such as loss of bone density, balance and muscle mass.
But for many of us with ongoing mobility issues, Britain’s streets and pavements – not least in our bigger towns and cities – are an absolute nightmare to deal with. In no special order, the problems many of us face simply trying to walk from A to B include:
– Uneven pavements: Many pavements in the UK suffer from wear, tear and general poor maintenance, becoming more cracked and uneven over time. This can pose a significant trip hazard for seniors more vulnerable to injuries from falls.
– Obstructions and clutter: Pavements might be obstructed by poorly parked vehicles, overhanging branches or other obstacles such as scaffolding or tables and chairs from cafés and bars which can force seniors to step onto the road or make getting around that much more challenging.
– Insufficient accessibility features: Some pavements may well lack features such as tactile paving for the visually impaired, or ramps for wheelchair or mobility scooter users.
– Limited seating areas: Lack of benches or seating areas along pavements can be a real problem for seniors who simply need a bit of a breather during walks.
– Safety concerns: Older people may well feel vulnerable to crime or harassment while walking, especially after dark, in poorly lit or isolated areas.
Is anything being done?
Various initiatives and campaigns have been undertaken by certain local authorities, community groups, and non-governmental organisations to help address these issues and make pavements safer and more accessible for seniors.
Some of these efforts include local councils prioritising repairs in areas with high senior foot traffic, and the UK Government setting standards for accessibility and pavement safety that local authorities are encouraged to follow – including the provision of more seating, and improved surveillance and lighting.
Do bear in mind though that specific measures and initiatives taken can vary greatly from region to region, as pavement management is often under the jurisdiction of local councils. For the most up-to-date information on the current state of pavements and the efforts being made to improve them, we’d advise that you check with your own local authorities and relevant organisations.
Anything I can do as an individual?
As an individual looking to make a stand and help improve matters, you are not powerless! There are, in fact, several actions you can take:
– Report hazards: Be proactive in identifying and reporting what you see as hazardous, such as uneven surfaces, potholes, or obstructions. Contact your local council or relevant authority to notify them directly of the issues so that they can be addressed. And don’t forget to take photos or videos of the hazards.
– Engagement: Attend community meetings or engage with local councils and representatives to voice your concerns about pavement conditions, and advocate for improvements. Your input can help raise awareness.
– Join or support local organisations: Many communities have groups or organisations that are dedicated to pedestrian safety and accessibility. Joining or supporting these groups can really help amplify your efforts, and provide a platform to advocate for improvements. A simple Google search should help you find such groups.
– Promote accessibility standards: Learn about accessibility standards and guidelines for pavements, and advocate for their implementation in your local area. Learn more by visiting: www.gov.uk/government/publications/inclusive-mobility-using-tactile-paving-surfaces. Encourage local authorities to follow these guidelines to create safer environments.
– Engage with café owners and businesses: Approach the café owners and businesses in your area to discuss (calmly!) the impact their outdoor seating arrangements might have on pedestrian mobility. Encourage them to be considerate and ensure that their set-ups don’t obstruct the pavement excessively, leaving enough space for pedestrians to pass comfortably. Be prepared to compromise.
– Share your experiences: Share your experiences with pavement-related challenges and safety concerns through local media or social media platforms. Personal stories can be really powerful tools for helping to raise awareness and generate support for improvements.
– Write to your MP: Write letters or emails to your local Member of Parliament to express your concerns about the obstacles you face on a daily basis. Politicians can play a vital role in advocating for change and for policies that address these problems.
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