What are the key mobility issues facing seniors?
Just because we’re getting older, doesn’t mean that life is slowing down.
As we age we are faced with a number of mobility issues. By understanding these issues, and taking the necessary measures, we can ensure that we manage the transition to retired life as smoothly as possible, without having to give up the things we love.
Should I still be driving?
The convenience of owning a vehicle can be a difficult one to give up, particularly after a lifetime of safe driving. But sometimes it’s not worth the risk. As Vic Roads notes it’s not necessarily the older drivers who are causing the problems on the road, but they do face a level of risk behind the wheel.
Vic Roads notes, “While older drivers do not have as many crashes as some other age groups, they are more at risk of being seriously injured or killed if involved in a crash.”
Senior drivers need to weigh up whether the convenience of being able to drive is worth the risk of something serious happening while they’re on the road.
Is public transport accessible enough for seniors?
Many seniors become increasingly reliant on public transport as they age. Because of this, there’s a need for governments and community transport services to provide adequate infrastructure to help seniors around the country get from point A to point B.
This is especially true for areas that aren’t as densely populated.
Should I consider alternative forms of transport?
It’s also becoming increasingly important for seniors to understand the opportunities presented by new, emerging alternative forms of transport. For example, the popular rideshare company Uber partnered with the Seniors Card NSW to give the schemes 1.4 million members a $20 discount on their first Uber ride.
Conclusion
Australians are getting older, but that doesn’t mean we have less to do!
And it’s important that we take into account the key mobility issues facing us in the future. By understanding these issues and what is required from the lawmakers and the people behind the decisions that are affecting senior’s mobility into the future.
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