Safety for seniors: Wider sidewalks required in Rondorf!

Safety for seniors: Wider sidewalks required in Rondorf!

There are currently major discussions in Cologne-Rodenkirchen about the sidewalk situation on Rondorfer Hauptstrasse. The senior citizens' representative, represented by Thomas Grothkopp, is campaigning for wider sidewalks, especially in front of the houses on the main street. The sidewalk on the western side, at house number 43, measures just 45 cm and represents an immense challenge for many people with limited mobility. On the opposite side it is only 75 cm, which is also not ideal. This not only causes discomfort for seniors, but also raises questions about general road safety.

For people who rely on walkers, like residents Anne Merkenich and Jochen Brillinger, the narrow sidewalks are barely passable. Merkenich expresses concern as no one adheres to the 30km/h speed limit 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 from the Papageno music school, who also complain about the situation.

Demands of the senior citizens' representatives

The senior citizens' representative proposes narrowing the roadway to 3.50 meters in order to create a 1.45 meter sidewalk. Grothkopp recalls that he had similar discussions 20 years ago to improve road safety. A request that, sadly, has not yet been implemented to this day. However, the request to improve sidewalk safety must wait until the September meeting of the district council. Grothkopp faces the challenge of convincing a parliamentary group to submit the motion.

The urgency of these measures is also reflected in the current statistics: According to the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV), 59.3% of cyclists and pedestrians who had fatal accidents in 2023 were at least 65 years old. This highlights the particular risk that seniors are at in traffic. Older people are particularly vulnerable as unprotected road users and the reasons for this are often greater vulnerability and changes in cognitive and motor skills with age.

Road safety in old age

The importance of road safety cannot be overemphasized. The Federal Ministry therefore supports various initiatives to educate and improve the traffic situation for seniors. The measures include free road safety days and seminars that specifically deal with age-related dangers in traffic. These events offer, among other things, information on safe cycling, using rollators and riding pedelecs. Because mobility in old age is not just a need, but essential for participation in social life.

Overall, it is clear that a broad social discussion about road safety and mobility for older people is necessary. The suggestions from the senior citizens' representatives in Rodenkirchen could represent a valuable step in the right direction. Especially in times of demographic change, it is becoming increasingly important to ensure the quality of life of all citizens and to break down barriers in everyday life. This is the only way no one needs to worry about narrow sidewalks and traffic safety.