Mobility Options for the Aging Population of Manitoba: An Action Plan for Regional Solutions

Abstract

Safe mobility for older adults is a multifaceted and complex issue, and no single solution exists to address the needs of a diverse senior population. Solutions to improve transportation for seniors are impeded by a range of obstacles including: (1) increasing demand due to large increases in the elderly population; (2) inadequate funding and the need for clarification in jurisdictional responsibility; (3) the extreme winter conditions experienced in Manitoba; and (4) heavy reliance on the automobile and limited support for alternative forms of transportation. In the province of Manitoba previous research has emphasized that the lack of appropriate mobility resources for seniors in both urban and rural settings hinders the promotion of independence, quality of life and empowerment that are all crucial factors for successful aging.