Citation

Bunker JB, Blanchard RD, Wachs M. Transp. Res. Rec. 1977; 660: 1-11.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1977, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The diversity of the elderly population in Los Angeles County is studied by using the concept of life-style. Life-style is defined by a set of socioeconomic, demographic, and behavioral characteristics. A methodology is presented that uses factorial ecology techniques; the data required are commonly available from census and administrative sources in metropolitan areas. Factor analysis is applied to census tracts to define dimensions of life-style that represent the major differentiating characteristics of elderly populations. Homogeneous life-style groups among the elderly are then identified by clustering tracts that show similar life-style dimensions. Finally, analysis of variance is used to identify differences in the travel characteristics of life-style groups. An investigation of the elderly population of Los Angeles County was conducted as a case study. Seven dimensions were defined that provided a basis for the identification of seven elderly life-style groups. Each group was found to be unique in terms of travel demands and socioeconomic composition. Life-style groups were also found to reside in specific areas of the county, a necessary condition for meeting their transportation needs.