POTHOLES PREVENT ELDERLY EXERCISING

Traffic congestion and poor roads Cause problems

- STUART MACDONALD

POORLY maintained roads and pavements are stopping older people from going outdoors to exercise, a new study has found.

Research by Heriot-Watt University for walking, wheeling and cycling charity Sustrans found pensioners valued staying active for wellbeing.

However, participants in the study, who were aged between 60 and 91, said they faced many barriers.

These include poor streets and pavements, potholes and drains, and not enough road crossings, street lighting, parking or public transport. High levels of traffic and inconsiderate drivers also figured.