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P a g e
Action Area B: Transportation
Background
Transportation is vital to older adults’ mobility, quality of life, and independence.
It takes many forms, including walking, bicycling, private automobiles, community
transportation options, public transit and paratransit services. Historical development patterns
affect our transportation choices, and areas within Chesapeake hold differing challenges and
opportunities.
According to a recent report from the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, 69% of
the populations in our Metropolitan Statistical Area who are 65-79 have poor access to public
transportation. “Absent access to affordable travel options, seniors face isolation, a reduced
quality of life and possible economic hardship.”
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Findings
Mobility is a crucial component of everyone’s quality of life. Affordable, easy-to-use, and
flexible transportation options are essential for accessing health care services, establishing
and maintaining social and family contacts, and preserving independence and general
well-being.
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“…many older people see mobility as inextricably linked to personal image, dignity, and well-
being. Other research has suggested that the ability to stay connected to friends and
community is an important element to physical and mental health. Most adults equate mobility
with the ability to drive; the loss of driving is seen as a handicap, which results in, at best, a
change in lifestyle and, at worst, the end of life as they know it.”
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Lack of transportation is a significant impediment to independence. Seniors live in fear of not
having access to a car so that they can go to the places they need, i.e. shopping, medical
appointment, and social activities. According to the Census Bureau in 2012 in Chesapeake,
between 1.77 and 2.88% of heads of households ages 65 and older did not have a vehicle
available for their households.
In the Chesapeake 55+ Survey, transportation ranked last as currently meeting community
needs. And, it was ranked as the third most important investment, just behind access to health
care and affordable housing.
When asked “If additional funds become available for transportation projects in the future, what
do you think the highest priority spending areas should be to help serve seniors?”, 29.7% rated
expanding services for persons that need assistance like HandiRide or Paratransit as their
On average, men live 7 years after having to
stop driving and women live 10 years.
