Transportation is a major element in maintaining personal independence and a high quality of life. Flexible transportation options are essential for accessing health care services, establishing and maintaining social contacts, and preserving independence and general well being. Today, older persons are heavily reliant on the automobile to take them where they need and want to go. Even in urban and suburban areas where public transportation is available, older adults maintain a heavy reliance on the car. As the population ages and more persons experience barriers to driving and riding alternative forms of transportation, more attention must be given to policies that assure persons have flexible and safe mobility options that allow them to get the services they need. The Utah Department of Transportation in collaboration with AARP Utah is examining a myriad of transportation issues that will affect the quality of life of all Utahans as they age. These data will be used to help define appropriate policies and strategies to aid residents in accessing the goods and services they need in a barrier free and safe manner. (Author/publisher)
Abstract