Transportation Problems of Older Adults

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, with the aging of the baby boom generation, the number of people needing to travel will put more pressure on transportation services. The author points out that declining health and finances can lead to a cessation or limitation in driving. The paper relates that the cessation of driving may lead to social isolation, which is linked strongly to premature death; however, having access to public transportation can lead to a higher levels of satisfaction with quality of life. The author underscores that most aging individuals do not use public transportation because of accessibility, unreliable arrival times, difficulties with learning to use public transportation, fear of being attacked and problems with lighting and steps. The paper highlights the availability of government funding to expand and improve public transportation for the handicapped and aged, but urges that more is needed.

From the Paper:

"On the other hand, there are approximately seven million adults over the age of 65 that do not drive, with women making up the majority of non-drivers. Women tend to stop driving more than men of the same age. According to Bailey (2004), more than 50% of individuals 65 and older, who do not drive stay home because they lack transportation options. Non-drivers only average about 1.5 trips per day, while drivers tend to make 4 trips in one day. Furthermore, older non-drivers average 15% fewer trips to the doctor, 59% fewer shopping trips, and 65% fewer social trips."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Azad, N., Byszewski, A., Amos, S., & Molnar, F.J. (2002). A survey of the impact of driving cessation on older drivers. Geriatrics Today, 5, 170-174.
• Cvitkovich, Y., & Wister, A. (2001). The importance of transportation and prioritizing environmental needs to sustain well-being among older adults. Environment and Behavior, 33 (6), 809-829.
• Drainoni, M.L., Lee-Hood, E., Tobias, C., Bachman, S.S., Andrew, J., & Maisels, L. (2006). Cross-disability experiences of barriers to health-care access. Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 17 (2), 101-115.
• Findlay, R., & Cartwright, C. (2002). Social isolation & older people: A literature Review. University of Queensland: Queensland Government.
• Hare, P.H. (1992). Frail elders and the suburbs. Generations, 35-39.

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