How and Where Did Older People Travel Before and After COVID? Insights from Washington, DC’s Smart Card Data

Abstract

Using smart card data of subway trips, this paper analyzed travel behaviors of older adults in Washington, DC in three phases of COVID-19 (Pre: 2018-2019, Early: 2020, Late: 2021-2022). The findings show that the impact of COVID-19 on average daily travel patterns was more pronounced on weekday travels, compared to weekend trips. In addition, compared to the general population, older adults’ subway usage showed a slower recovery to normal patterns in both usage levels and trip destinations. The results reveal important insights for transportation planners and transit authorities about older adults’ travel patterns during normal times and unusual events.