Solutions to the Challenge of Meeting Rural Transportation Needs: Middle-Aged and Older Adults’ Perspectives |
| |
Authors: | Moon Choi Amy M Schuster Nancy E Schoenberg |
| |
Institution: | 1. Graduate School of Science and Technology Policy, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea;2. Graduate Center for Gerontology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA;3. Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA |
| |
Abstract: | This study aimed to explore how the aging population in Appalachia manages its transportation and plans for the transition to non-driving and to seek possible solutions to the challenge of meeting rural transportation needs. Four focus groups (N = 38) were conducted, supplemented by a questionnaire, in Appalachian Kentucky. The results showed that few alternative transportation existed except a local paratransit service and informal transportation support. Compared to older adults, middle-aged adults reported a greater willingness to use mobile phones and the Internet to arrange transportation if they were available. Participants also recommended expanding the use of existing transportation in the community – such as church vans – to better meet the aging population’s needs. The findings suggest that partnership between government, non-profit, and private sectors is needed, not solely focusing on a tax-dependent solution. Additionally, information and communication technology-based transportation management system would help maximize the use of scare but existing resources in rural areas. |
| |
Keywords: | Automobile driving senior transportation rural areas mobile technology baby boomers |
|
|