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Transportation needs of the elderly population
1Drachman Institute of Land and Regional Development Studies, University of Arizona, Tucson.
Clinics in Geriatric Medicine
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Older adults rely on private cars for independence and mobility. Healthcare services must adapt to aging populations in suburban and rural areas, considering transportation challenges.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Transportation Studies
- Public Health
Background:
- The aging population in the United States is increasing.
- Elderly individuals depend on private cars for mobility, independence, and choice.
- Future demographic shifts indicate a majority of seniors will reside in suburban or rural areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the transportation needs of the elderly population.
- To examine the implications of demographic changes on elderly mobility.
- To highlight the role of healthcare and human service agencies in addressing these needs.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of demographic trends in the United States.
- Assessment of transportation options for the elderly in various geographic settings.
- Review of the relationship between service accessibility and elderly mobility.
Main Results:
- Private car use is essential for elderly independence and will remain so.
- Public transit and para-transit are often impractical or costly in suburban and rural areas.
- Reduced mobility significantly impacts seniors' access to essential services, social networks, and healthcare.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare and human service agencies must proactively address the transportation needs of the elderly.
- Service location and programming should consider the mobility limitations of the aging population.
- Agencies need to adapt services to ensure accessibility for seniors, rather than expecting seniors to overcome mobility barriers.