The Role of Passenger Information Systems in Addressing Challenges for Older Adults

Public transit should be accessible to all, and by implementing smarter transportation solutions and infrastructures, cities can help older adults maintain their independence and stay socially engaged.

As cities continue to modernize, passenger information systems (PIS) will play a pivotal role in enhancing the experience for everyone, especially older adults. By offering real-time updates, important notifications, and route information, PIS can make navigating public transit easier and more enjoyable.

Why Accessible Transportation Matters

Many people rely on public transportation. For those who may not have access to a vehicle or find driving increasingly difficult as they age, public transit helps them:

• Get to medical appointments
• Participate in community events
• Meet family and friends
• Handle essential tasks, like going to the grocery store

Without access to reliable, accessible transportation, older adults are at risk of reduced quality of life, social isolation, and even a decline in health. Ensuring that all who ride can safely and confidently navigate transit systems should be a top priority for cities and businesses. As it stands now, many current systems only offer more challenges for older adults, not solutions.

Where Many Current Systems Fall Short

For older adults, passenger information systems can feel overwhelming or difficult to use. The current designs that many rail and transit stations use present many challenges, including:

• Text that’s too small on digital screens
• Complex navigation options
• Interfaces that aren’t intuitive

These challenges are even more problematic for those with hearing or visual impairments and those who are simply unfamiliar with digital tools.

Staff can also find it challenging to identify and assist those who need extra help, leading to even more frustration. Without specific features that alert staff when someone requires assistance, older adults may feel neglected or unsafe while traveling.

How Modern Systems Address These Issues

Passenger information systems should enhance the transit experience for all, not create a more frustrating experience. By prioritizing user-friendly and customizable features, PIS can cater to the specific needs of the older adult demographic. That level of customization alone can make it easier for travelers to navigate public transportation.

User-Friendly Interface Designs

Immediate improvements you’ll see with a dynamic passenger information system from XenaTech designed for your transit system?

• Large text
• Simple graphics
• High-contrast displays

All of which makes information and onboard systems easier to read. Implementing voice commands as a touchscreen alternative can also be an effective way to support those with limited mobility or who are not as digitally savvy as others.

Our team can also work with you to create a simplified navigation that eliminates unnecessary or complicated menus. Because many older adults can be intimidated by technology, making them as intuitive as possible can help travelers quickly and confidently access the information they need.

Route Planning Features

Advanced route planning is another way a passenger information system from XenaTech can assist your older passengers. A system that suggests the most accessible routes, such as the fewest transfers or shortest walking distances, helps passengers travel with fewer obstacles.

Such ease of planning, paired with a more straightforward journey, can make the excursion more comfortable.

Assistance Alerts

Perhaps one of the most important features a train or bus passenger information system can offer is the ability to alert transit staff should someone need assistance. Whether it’s helping with locating the right platform, finding a seat, or offering a hand with boarding, real-time assistance alerts ensure all riders, including older adults, get the attention they need.

The Future Is Promising

While modern passenger information systems are helpful now, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) could offer even more innovative ways to improve the riding experience of older adults.

For example, AI could learn individual rider preferences and offer personalized recommendations based on past routes or mobility challenges. ML could also help predict where and when older passengers most likely need assistance.

Get Your Accessible Solution Today

Our XenaTech team understands the importance of creating innovative, versatile passenger information systems accessible to all riders. Learn more about our existing passenger information systems or connect with us about an idea you have–we’re equipped with the knowledge, technology, and resources needed to bring that vision to life.