Security for seniors: Wider sidewalks in Rondorf required!

Security for seniors: Wider sidewalks in Rondorf required!

In Cologne-Rodenkirchen there are currently big discussions about the sidewalk situation on Rondorfer Hauptstraße. The senior citizens' representation, represented by Thomas Grothkopp, is strong for wider sidewalks, especially in front of the houses on the main street. The sidewalk on the western side, in the amount of house number 43, only measures 45 cm and represents an immense challenge for many restricted mobility. On the opposite side it is only 75 cm, which is also not optimal. This not only causes discomfort among the seniors, but also raises questions about general traffic safety.

For people who rely on rollators, like the residents Anne Merkenich and Jochen Brillinger, the narrow sidewalks can hardly be passed. Merketich expresses concerned words because nobody adheres to the speed limit of 30 km/h, while around 10,000 vehicles cross the road every day. Wider sidewalks would not only be a plus for older people, but also for parents with school children and the musicians of the Musikschule Papageno, who also complain about the situation.

claims of the senior citizens' representative

The senior citizens' representative suggests narrowing the road to 3.50 meters to create a sidewalk of 1.45 meters. Grothkopp recalls that he had similar conversations 20 years ago to improve security on the street. A concern that has not yet been implemented sadly. However, the request to improve sidewalk safety must wait until the district council september. Grothkopp is faced with the challenge of convincing a parliamentary group.

The urgency of these measures can also be seen in the current statistics: According to the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV), 59.3 % of the fatally crashed cyclists and pedestrians were at least 65 years old in 2023. This illustrates the special hazard of senior citizens in traffic. Older people are particularly vulnerable as unprotected road users and the causes of this are often greater vulnerability and changes in cognitive and motor skills in old age.

traffic safety in old age

The importance of traffic safety cannot be emphasized enough. Therefore, the Federal Ministry supports various initiatives to clarify and improve the traffic situation for seniors. The measures include free traffic safety days and seminars that deal with age -related dangers in traffic. These events offer information about safe cycling, rollator use and driving with pedelecs. Because mobility in old age is not just a need, but essential for participation in social life.

Overall, it can be seen that a broad social discussion about traffic safety and mobility of older people is necessary. The proposals from the senior representative in Rodenkirchen could be a valuable step in the right direction. Especially in times of demographic changes, it is becoming increasingly important to secure the quality of life of all citizens and to reduce barriers in everyday life. This is the only way to worry about narrow sidewalks and traffic safety.