Hollister
– For some senior citizens, a daily errand as simple as picking
up groceries or stopping by the post office can become a harrowing
feat. The hustle and bustle of city streets and highways can often
prove dangerous for seniors behind the wheel.
Hollister – For some senior citizens, a daily errand as simple as picking up groceries or stopping by the post office can become a harrowing feat. The hustle and bustle of city streets and highways can often prove dangerous for seniors behind the wheel.
In light of this, the San Benito County Local Transportation Authority and Council of Governments have declared next week as Senior Safe Mobility Week in the hopes of persuading local seniors to give public transportation a try.
“There are lots of benefits for senior citizens that maybe they just don’t know about,” said Michael Krausie, San Benito County Council of Government’s Transportation Intern.
Transportation officials from around the state are anxiously anticipating what will happen to California roadways as the baby boomers age and more and more of the state’s drivers become elderly.
According to Eldersafety.org and the Older Californian Traffic Safety Task Force, California’s senior population (those 65 and older), now numbers 4 million. This figure will grow to 5.2 million in 2020 and to 9 million a decade after that. At the same time, the number of licensed drivers within this age group will ascend – growing from today’s 2.75 million to 4 million in 2020, and 6 million in 2030.
Eldersafety.org also reports that drivers older than 80 experience “disproportionate increases” in auto crashes and crashes where they are at fault, compared to drivers between 30 and 60.
Senior Safe Mobility Week is a statewide effort that the local community is participating in. From Nov. 22 to 28, anyone older than 65 is entitled to free use of the local public transportation system.
“We want seniors to know that this is an alternative that is dependable, safe and less stressful for them when they need a ride,” Krausie said.
Increasing ridership also benefits the county, as well – in the past the system has received criticism from county officials concerned that busses might cost more than they’re worth.
“This is a chance for us to get information about public transportation out there and hopefully will help reduce accident,” Krausie said.
For more information about the program call 831-637-7665.
Danielle Smith covers education for the Free Lance. Reach her at 637-5566, ext. 336 or ds****@fr***********.com
