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Most seniors able to get around

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Most seniors in Canada have access to either private or public transportation for getting around—for shopping, getting to appointments, visiting family and friends or taking part in leisure activities.

In 2005, 98% of men and 95% of women aged 65 to 74 had access either to a vehicle in their household or to public transit. Although access to both these types of transportation is lower among seniors in older age groups, 86% of those aged 85 and older had such access in 2005.

Public transit is a satisfactory option for many people of all ages, especially those who live downtown. However, access to a private vehicle does make it much easier to get around, especially in an emergency. In 2005, 80% of all seniors had access to a household vehicle, compared with 91% of Canadians aged 55 to 64, while 71% of seniors aged 65 and older were able to drive a vehicle. Yet, proportionally fewer women aged 75 and older are able to drive.

Seniors who have a valid driver’s licence and own a vehicle are the most likely to leave their home at least once each day. In fact, they are two times less likely to remain at home all day on any given day than those who do not have access to a household vehicle or public transit. Seniors with access to their own vehicle are also more likely to do volunteer work.

Very few seniors were completely without a means of transportation in 2005. However, people 85 and older, women, and seniors in rural areas are more likely to have limited transportation options.