Opinion | Seniors, Do You Have Trouble Getting Around Town?

If you happen to’re an older grownup making an attempt to cross a large metropolis road, you might be aware of that irritating second when the site visitors gentle begins to blink pink however you’re nonetheless midway from the curb and uncertain in case you’ll make it in time whereas agitated drivers begin honking.

You would possibly devise methods to flee this fraught state of affairs, or perhaps you simply keep residence and miss a physician’s appointment or social gathering as a result of you may’t discover somebody to drive you there.

You’re not alone.

By 2030, a minimum of 1 in 5 Individuals may have reached retirement age, and cities are the main point of interest for this demographic tide. At present, 8 in 10 Individuals age 65 or older already stay in metropolitan areas, and lots of older Individuals more and more desire to age in place. But, many neighborhoods aren’t designed to account for the wants of older populations.

A slender sidewalk, a quickly altering streetlight and restricted choices for resting areas could make getting round harmful, and the shortage of open public areas can hold seniors from getting much-needed train and social time. In rural areas and sprawling suburbs, inadequate public transportation decisions additionally make it more durable for older individuals to purchase their groceries, stay independently and keep related with household and mates.

Occasions Opinion wish to hear immediately from seniors in regards to the bumps within the street, actually and figuratively, that they encounter when navigating their neighborhoods. What might your metropolis or city do to be extra age-friendly and inclusive? We need to know.

We plan to incorporate a choice of responses in a future challenge. An Opinion editor will contact you earlier than publishing your feedback.