Access to transportation for Chittenden County Vermont older adults

Background Aging often leads to decreased independence and mobility, which can be detrimental to health and well-being. The growing population of older adults will create a greater need for reliable transportation. Aims Explore whether and how lack of transportation has compromised areas of daily lives in older adults. Methods 1221 surveys with 36 questions assessing transportation access, usage, and impact on activities were distributed to Chittenden County, Vermont older adults; 252 met criteria for analysis. Results Older adults reported overwhelming difficulty getting to activities considered important, with 69 % of participants delaying medical appointments due to transportation barriers. Although family and friends represent a primary method of transportation, older adults reported difficulty asking them for help. Discussion Lack of accessible transportation leads to missed healthcare appointments and social isolation, which may have detrimental effects on older adults’ quality of life. Conclusion Many older adults face significant transportation challenges that negatively affect their health and well-being.