How do people with cognitive functional limitations post-stroke manage the use of buses in local public transport?

People with cognitive functional limitations (CFLs) have rarely been the focus of research dealing with road users and their needs. The aim of the present study was to describe how people with CFL post-stroke manage in their use of buses in the framework of their outdoor mobility, and to find out what difficulties, but also what opportunities, they experienced when moving from origin to destination using buses in public transport. Semi-structured interviews combined with participant observations during bus trips with eight persons were performed. Several barriers that have the potential to restrict autonomous outdoor mobility were identified. These barriers were not only represented by well-known infrastructure problems (high pavement curbs, etc.) or ergonomic shortcomings in the buses but, even more so, by specific issues relevant for persons with CFL, e.g. having to cross a road on their way to the bus stop, which poses problems of interaction with fast-moving car traffic. Obtaining all the necessary information prior to and during the trip is difficult and produces insecurity. Often, communication with the bus drivers, not least in connection with the search for information, causes extra stress. Lack of self-confidence and feelings of inferiority add to these problems. Measures to control vehicle speeds, to optimise the communication style of bus drivers with their customers, and to improve customers' access to information are recommended. Training measures to reassure persons with CFL in connection with their use of the public space are suggested.