Older Americans have a love affair with the automobile, a feeling that is closely tied to deeply held values of autonomy and independence. According to AARP, eighty-nine percent of older adults travel in private vehicles. This group does not easily give up cars for public transportation. These behaviours can affect their mobility as they age and, therefore, their ability to socialize with friends and family, to meet their physical needs, and to take part in activities that make their lives meaningful. As people age, a number of factors can threaten mobility, including impaired ability to drive, limited availability of alternative forms of transportation and unwillingness to be dependent upon others. Adding to the issue, nearly 80% of older adults live in suburban and rural areas where public transportation is limited and walking to destinations is not feasible. Being a non-driver can be a risk factor for isolation. AARP's national study indicates that half of all non-drivers age 65 or over stay at home on any given day, missing opportunities for social interaction or community involvement. Good transportation options are crucial to the ability of people to age in place, in their homes and in their communities. (Author/publisher)
Abstract