Can’t drive? Don’t fuss; get out and hop a bus

In a way, perhaps. I know for certain that as some people get older, they don’t get around as much. One of the most talked about reasons is that their children and/or doctors have insisted that it is no longer appropriate or safe for them to drive. It’s a sore, sore subject, and it can lead to a first-class case of the blues. Another reason is that for an increasing number of people on fixed limited incomes, owning, operating and insuring a car is prohibitive.
  Now back to Duke Ellington and boarding that train.
 Research shows that when older folks can no longer drive, they do not automatically turn to public transportation as an alternative. For many, that means becoming more isolated. Reduced mobility and accessibility coupled with isolation does a real number on people – mentally and physically.
  AARP understands that, and it has been working for years to address the problem. Its advocacy in support of Livable Communities and Com-plete Streets design concepts is part of a diverse strategy to enable people to age in place comfortably and independently for as long as it is practical.
  AARP’s latest related effort in the Ocean State is sponsorship of a new Rhode Island Transpor-tation Authority (RIPTA) rider’s guide that will be out in early March. The RIPTA “How to Ride Guide” is a free, step-by-step handbook for making transportation by bus work for you, whether you’re headed across town or across the state.
  The guide includes information on schedules, fares, senior discounts, special accessibility and safety. It also answers the most common RIPTA question: “Do I need exact change?” (If you purchase an e-fare card or RIPTIKS in advance, you don’t.) Presented in comic book format, the guide is simple and easy to follow. And, again, it’s free. I should add that it is designed for people of all ages. So, even if you don’t think you are right for RIPTA, you may want to pass along this new resource to anyone you think might use it.
  In addition to helping make the “How to Ride Guide” available, AARP Rhode Island is sponsoring a series of RIPTA How to Ride workshops, starting with a kick-off event on March 5 at the West End Community Center, 109 Bucklin St., Providence. The free workshop will run from 10 a.m. to noon, with lunch following. A RIPTA bus will be there for a demonstration, and reduced fare passes will be made for seniors who bring identification. Also, you’ll receive a gift from AARP. Call Deborah Miller at (401) 248-2654 to reserve your spot and feel free to bring a friend.
  Did you know that seniors and people with disabilities can ride RIPTA buses for $1 dollar and pay just 25 cents for a transfer? That is half off regular fare.
  How to Ride workshops sponsored by AARP Rhode Island will continue through the winter and into the spring. For dates, times and locations, call RIPTA at (401) 781-9400. The hearing impaired can call 711 or (800) 745-5555.
  I know that for some people any excuse will do when it comes to saying no to public transportation. By working with RIPTA’s staff, which is dedicated to making public transit a positive experience, I am more convinced that most of those excuses are baseless. It’s mainly about taking the first step, and the first step is about to become easier.
 
Kathleen S. Connell is state director of AARP-Rhode Island. She can be contacted at kconnell@aarp.org.