01630040

Component

Rural and small communities in the United States are home to a notably higher proportion of older adults (those aged 65 and older) than urban or suburban areas, and this proportion is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. Public transportation can play an important role in meeting the mobility needs of older adults in these communities, but transportation providers face significant challenges serving older adults in these settings. Using a set of case studies, the authors explore strategies that providers are using to try to address these challenges and increase older adult transit use. These strategies include the use of partnerships, cost reduction strategies, and individualized outreach to older adults. Case study participants report generally positive results of their efforts, yet most assessment rests on anecdotal evidence. There is a need for better data to determine whether critical mobility needs are being effectively served.

This paper was sponsored by TRB committee AP055 Standing Committee on Rural Public and Intercity Bus Transportation.

01618707

17-01170

English

17p

2017

Transportation Research Board 96th Annual Meeting

Digital/other

Figures; Maps; References; Tables

Aged; Case studies; Mobility; Outreach; Partnerships; Public transit; Rural areas; Transit operating agencies

United States

Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation; Society

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2017 Paper #17-01170

TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Dec 8 2016 10:21AM