How public transit affects health behaviors in older adults with disabilities
Official title: Investigating the role of public transit on health behaviors among older adults with disabilities
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11121146 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how using public transportation can help older adults, especially those with disabilities, stay active and connected with others, so we can find ways to make it easier for them to get around and improve their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $248,992 |
| NIH project number | 4R00AG081563-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11121146 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those with disabilities who face challenges in accessing transportation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have disabilities may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how access to public transit influences the health behaviors of older adults, particularly those with disabilities. It aims to understand the relationship between public transit use and activities such as physical exercise and social engagement, which are vital for healthy aging. By collecting data on public transit accessibility and linking it to health outcomes, the study seeks to identify features that can be modified to improve health behaviors among this population. The findings could inform policies and practices to enhance transportation options for older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public transit systems that promote better health outcomes for older adults with disabilities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that improving access to public transit can enhance physical activity and social participation among older adults, indicating a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Twardzik, Erica — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Twardzik, Erica
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.