Experiences with Paratransit Use Among Older Adults Living with Disability
Author Information
Author(s): Fique Morgan, Mathis Lindsey, Castilo Andrea Melgar, Twardzik Erica, Falvey Jason, Cooper-Williams Jasmine
Primary Institution: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Hypothesis
How do older users interact with, benefit from, or experience barriers related to paratransit services?
Conclusion
Paratransit services are essential for older adults to maintain independence, but significant barriers exist that hinder their use.
Supporting Evidence
- Paratransit services help older adults maintain independence and reduce social isolation.
- Ableist interactions with staff negatively impact user experiences.
- Inefficiencies in service and eligibility processes burden older riders.
- Paratransit often fails to meet the needs of older disabled riders.
- Environmental factors increase the burden on older riders.
- Social supports are critical for older adult paratransit use.
Takeaway
Older adults need special transportation services to get around, but there are many problems that make it hard for them to use these services.
Methodology
12 semi-structured interviews with paratransit users aged 55 and older were conducted and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.
Limitations
The study is limited to a small sample size and specific geographic area.
Participant Demographics
Participants were paratransit users aged 55 and older in the Baltimore area.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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