How we will age in North Fulton? A look at Transportation
“by 2030, 1 in 5 Georgians will be over 60”
Demographic reports indicate that we can expect a dramatic increase in the numbers of individuals age 55+ in North Fulton. The Atlanta Regional Commission projected that between 2000 and 2030, the population age 55+ in Fulton County will increase 96%. What does that mean for our community? Will our residents be able to stay in their homes? What do we need to ‘age in place’?
“It is estimated that on average, older adults will outlive their driving ability by 11 years for women and 6 years for men.”
Transportation is certainly a key need. According to a report by The Georgia Health Policy Center in November 2018, AT A CROSSROADS: EXPLORING TRANSPORTATION FOR OLDER GEORGIANS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING LANDSCAPE the greatest current and projected future concentrations of older adults with high mobility needs are in urban and adjacent suburban areas. This includes all of the six cities in North Fulton. The report further stated that it is estimated that, on average, older adults will outlive their driving ability by 11 years for women and six years for men.
There are limited transportation options for older adults living in North Fulton. Unlike other parts of Fulton County, the vast majority of seniors have limited access to MARTA and MARTA Mobility. Bus and rail routes are limited, and often difficult for seniors to safely access. Ride shares are expensive and do not provide escorted services, which many require. The availability of flexible, and appropriate transportation options significantly impacts an individual’s mobility and ability to live independently in our community.
So what’s the solution? While there are no easy answers, Senior Services North Fulton works with community partners to advocate for transportation services for seniors. To learn more or get involved, visit ssnorthfulton.org.