May is designated Older Americans Month by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Aging. APTA urges our members to take part in a Telling Our Story: Older Americans Outreach, May 8-11, 2010.
APTA has developed resources to help you tell your story of how local public transportation can help older Americans maintain their mobility and independence.
See a sample of what some transit systems are doing.
Facts & Figures
America’s aging population is growing at a faster rate than any other U.S. population group. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that by 2030, there will be 9.6 million people age 85 and older – an increase of 73 percent from today. As American’s age, they face challenges with mobility and the continued ability to drive safely. In addition:
- Life expectancy is increasing.
- Average income of older adults is rising.
- Health status is generally expected to improve, but more people will acquire disabilities as aging advances.
Older adults of the future are likely to travel more than the generation before them, and more travel options will be needed for those with mobility or income limitations.
- Driving will still be the preferred means of travel for many seniors, but others will choose to at decrease their driving.
- New transportation options will be needed in suburban areas.
In 2005, 1,200 delegates to the White House Conference of Aging voted on 73 resolutions.
- The third highest vote-getting resolution, with more than 1,000 votes, was a resolution for expanding transportation options for seniors, including increased funding for public transportation targeted to senior needs.
- This resolution received more votes than resolutions for Medicare and Social Security.
For more information on the Older American Outreach please contact Kathy Golden at 202-496-4884 or kgolden@apta.com.