21% percent of Europeans are more than 65 and similar high figures present developed countries. It is a non-deniable fact that they represent an important part to such societies. Thus, it is necessary to analyze how we adapt to an ageing society. A lot of times proposals which foment “dependency” instead of “independence” implement actions to take. So, we need to change our viewpoint as it comes to sustainable mobility and particularly bicycles. Against the misconception of disabled people should buy a car to be independent, the reality shows that it promotes dependency on fuels, less physical activity compared with bikes and the need to adapt it to their disability.

Ageing or some disabling disease or accident can diminish our abilities and maintaining independence is fundamental for instance to go to the doctor or to movies. Indeed, Karel Dolekens (accessibility technician at the Breda council) affirms that there are no disabled people, the surroundings make disabled people. Building segregated bike lines, bike parking and promote their physical maintenance help making bicycles for everybody. Even in some cases people on crutches can use a cargobike, a tricycle or an e-bike. In The Netherlands, people over 65 use bicycles in the 30% of their daily movements.