Reliable transportation doesn’t fade with age; if anything, it becomes essential. Mobility means freedom, a chance to participate in daily life, and access to essential services. Yet, for many older adults, challenges like limited transportation options, mobility issues, and concerns about giving up driving make getting around difficult.
Ensuring senior-friendly transportation options are widely accessible has become a growing priority in the United States, where millions of elderlies rely on services to stay connected and engaged.
This issue is increasingly reflected in the ballot measures appearing in states across the western U.S. this fall, where voters will soon decide on transportation-focused initiatives that could bring significant improvements.
Key Takeaways
Reliable transportation is essential for older adults, enabling them to participate in daily life, access essential services, and maintain physical and mental well-being.
- Public transit systems are being improved with senior-friendly options, including accessible services, senior discounts, and adapted routes.
- Paratransit services provide door-to-door transportation for those who cannot reach traditional stops, connecting seniors with necessary services like healthcare.
- Ride-sharing services, volunteer driver networks, and community efforts to create safer, more walkable neighborhoods are also providing alternatives to driving cessation.
Why senior-friendly transportation matters
The ability to travel freely impacts all aspects of life. For older persons, access to transportation influences physical and mental well-being, social engagement, and quality of life. A dependable ride allows people to keep appointments, attend social events, and connect with family and friends. On the other hand, limited access can lead to isolation, linked to both physical and mental health concerns, including depression and cognitive decline.
Currently, nearly a quarter of older individuals are considered transportation disadvantaged, meaning they have few or no reliable options to get around. Many public transit systems weren’t designed with elderlies in mind, and areas with limited or no public transit make it almost impossible for those who can no longer drive to meet basic needs.
To meet this growing need, communities across the West are introducing proposals on upcoming ballots focused on improving infrastructure. For instance, a new ballot measure in San Diego, Measure G, proposes increasing sales tax slightly to generate dedicated funds for transit projects. 62% of this tax would support transit improvements, including accessible services that could benefit senior riders.
Public transit and road improvements for seniors
Public transportation can be an ideal option for older adults—when it’s accessible. Many cities now offer senior discounts, making public transit affordable for those on a fixed income. Some areas have also adapted services to better serve the aging population by ensuring that transit stops are close to healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and senior centers. However, there are still gaps.
Elderlies may struggle with overcrowded vehicles, limited schedules, or inaccessible facilities. In response, multiple cities and counties across western states, including Fremont County and Carson City, have proposed local taxes to improve transit systems. Fremont County voters will decide whether to extend a sales tax, originally implemented in 2012, that funds road and bridge infrastructure.
Supporters argue that the tax extension is critical for financing ongoing and future infrastructure projects, which could benefit all residents, including older adults, by improving road safety and public transit options.
Paratransit services provide essential door-to-door transportation for those who cannot reach traditional stops, and these services often connect seniors with necessary services like healthcare. In cities with limited accessibility, paratransit remains a vital link, and programs on local ballots aim to improve these offerings.
For example, voters in Carson are considering two measures that would increase funds specifically earmarked for road repair and upkeep while limiting their application for new road projects. These funds will enhance existing infrastructure, which could make it safer and more navigable for older persons who rely on well-maintained roads for public transit and walking.
The first measure proposes a small quarter-cent increase to the city’s 7.6% sales tax, expected to bring in around $7 million annually. The second measure adds a 1-cent government services tax collected during vehicle registration, applied to up to 35% of a vehicle’s value, decreasing with depreciation. Supporters say these funds are critical to addressing the city’s $21 million shortfall for maintaining local roads, most of which are ineligible for federal grants.
Impact of driving cessation on older adults
For many seniors, driving represents freedom, and the thought of giving it up can be incredibly difficult. With age, however, physical and cognitive abilities may decline, making driving unsafe. The decision to stop driving—known as driving cessation—is often one of the hardest choices elderlies face. The emotional impact is significant, with studies showing that giving up driving can lead to feelings of isolation and even depression.
Yet, giving up driving is more than an emotional issue; it has practical consequences, as many rely on cars to make essential trips like medical appointments or grocery shopping. Without alternative transportation options, some older persons feel dependent on family and friends, which can make them feel like a burden.
For this reason, communities are increasingly recognizing the importance of providing alternatives to help make this transition easier. Programs like volunteer driver networks, where local drivers provide rides to seniors, have gained popularity in several areas. These networks generally employ trained drivers who understand the unique needs of elderlies, like assisting them in and out of vehicles. For many older individuals, these services provide independence and flexibility.
Community efforts to support senior mobility
Across the United States, particularly in western states, communities and local governments are working to improve transportation for older adults. Many initiatives focus on creating safer, more walkable neighborhoods with additional crosswalks, curb ramps, and pedestrian signals with longer crossing times. ‘Complete Streets’ programs in some cities have been developed to design roads for users of all ages and abilities, creating accessibility not only for seniors but for everyone in the community.
In Gallatin County, a proposal aims to raise the local vehicle tax from 0.5% to 0.7%, directing all additional revenue toward road infrastructure. Currently, 70% of the existing revenue remains with the county, supporting the general fund, public safety, and roads, while 30% goes to cities and towns based on population. This proposed increase would specifically fund critical road improvements, benefiting older adults and others who rely on a safe, reliable transportation system.
Road upkeep and better infrastructure help make travel smoother and safer, and ensuring that streets are well-maintained is especially important for elderlies who may be sensitive to poorly maintained roads.
Ride-sharing services have also become a valuable option for older persons. Companies like Uber and Lyft have started collaborating with senior organizations, training drivers on how to assist older passengers, and adding features that allow family members to book rides on behalf of elders.
While costs may be a barrier, some insurance providers and cities now offer discounts or subsidies to make these services more affordable. Ride-sharing offers flexibility, allowing elderlies to book rides as needed, and helping them stay active and independent.
Programs like AARP’s Livable Communities initiative have made strides in advocating for senior-friendly cities. AARP pushes for cities to become more walkable, transit-friendly, and bikeable to improve the quality of life for older adults and anyone who relies on accessible transit.
These efforts reflect a shift in understanding that transportation is not just a convenience but an essential part of staying active and engaged in society.
Building an inclusive transportation future
With a growing senior population, the need for senior-friendly transportation in the U.S. is more pressing than ever. Building inclusive transportation systems benefits everyone, not just older individuals.
By voting on the transportation-focused measures appearing on fall ballots, residents across the western U.S. have an opportunity to improve their communities’ quality of life. Accessible transportation systems mean safer and better mobility options for seniors, which, in turn, support independence and overall well-being.
