LIMITATIONS OF MASS TRANSPORTATION AND INDIVIDUAL VEHICLE SYSTEMS FOR OLDER PERSONS. IN: MOBILITY AND TRANSPORTATION IN THE ELDERLY

This paper describes how the rapid growth of the oldest segment of our population is creating special transportation problems in the United States. This is because of the fact that the transportations systems were not designed for a high number of elderly travelers. The limitations of two principle modes of travel for older persons-the automobile and public mass transportation-create significant problems for older adults who are attempting to maintain a desirable level of mobility as the age. The vast majority of United States citizens, including the elderly rely on automobiles for their transportation. But the aging of our society is creating greater and greater number of older persons who are increasingly unable to safety operate a motor vehicle. Recent medical advances have made such significant increases in life expectancy that prospects for living longer than one can safely operate an automobile have dramatically increased for many persons. This is because the usual consequences of the aging process include an increase in functional disabilities and a reduction in the skills and abilities needed to drive an automobile. At the same time, prospects for obtaining mobility by any means other driving have not markedly improved. Furthermore, many of the same problems that lead to problems with an individuals' ability to continue to drive also create problems in the ability to use mass transit services.