Sunday, June 21, 2009

News roundup: elderly transportation

Alternate forms of transportation for the elderly

When it comes to the debate on elderly drivers and safety on the roads, Franklin senior center Director Karen Alves wants to ensure one point is not lost in the shuffle: adequate public transportation alternatives.

"Otherwise, you're condemning them to life in their apartment or house," she said, given an embarrassing loss of independence and a desire to avoid becoming a burden. "These folks do not want to ask people to help them, and who can blame them?"

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Seniors weigh in on driving restrictions

With Massachusetts lawmakers considering more stringent regulations on drivers over the age of 85, area residents who would be affected had mixed feelings about how additional tests should be implemented.

Richard King, 87, did not give a second thought when he drove to the Fairbank Senior Center in Sudbury on Wednesday.

"I'm almost 90 and still driving, and you better believe it," he said while stuffing envelopes for the Center's weekly senior bulletin.

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What age is too old to drive?

With recent accidents by elderly Bay State drivers a hot topic of conversation among her senior center clientele this week, Director Joanne Duffy sat in her Ashland office this week and contemplated new licensing proposals.

"I don't know the answer," she said. "I'm torn. A lot of people are OK with it. They're confident in their driving abilities and feel they'll pass. At the other end, they feel they're being singled out."

Concern over physically or mentally impaired older drivers has resurfaced this month after a trio of serious accidents.

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My two cents: There should not be a specific age test requirement, age is only one factor. The ability to drive safely is really the concern.

"The reluctance to admit it's time, that is an issue,"

What do you think about elderly drivers?


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