Accessibility-Based Evaluation and Optimization of Urban Public Transport for the Elderly: A Case Study of Shenzhen

As the global population ages, improving the accessibility of urban public transportation for the elderly has become an urgent societal challenge. This study introduces two key indices: the Public Transport Senior Accessibility Index (PTSAI) and the Public Transport Elderly Usability Index (PTEUI), which are designed to assess urban public transport systems in terms of elderly accessibility. PTSAI measures how easily elderly individuals can access public transportation stations from their residences, while PTEUI incorporates factors such as walking speed and availability of barrier-free facilities to evaluate elderly usability of transportation systems. Additionally, the study develops a Public Transportation Elderly Suitability Evaluation Model to quantify elderly accessibility levels across urban areas. Using Shenzhen as a case study, the model conducts an empirical analysis of the city’s public transportation system through GIS and Gaode Map API data. The results highlight significant disparities in elderly accessibility, particularly in peripheral regions. Based on these findings, the study proposes targeted recommendations to enhance transportation infrastructure in underserved areas and improve barrier-free facilities. This research provides a scientific foundation for transforming urban transport systems to better serve the elderly and offers valuable insights for other cities facing similar challenges.