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Transit tutoring provides critical independence, mobility for Nanaimo seniors

Nov 20, 2017 | 4:48 PM

NANAIMO — Riding the bus from one end of Nanaimo to another is challenging for anyone, let alone a senior who has never tried to navigate the public transit system.

That’s why Nanaimo Seniors Connect (NSC), in partnership with the Regional District of Nanaimo, will hold their third free session teaching seniors how to ride the bus. Lynne Henshaw, program coordinator with NSC, said improving mobility for seniors is a critical piece in their efforts to combat social isolation.

“If a senior is not able to get out, that becomes a real problem,” Henshaw told NanaimoNewsNOW. “Social isolation is hugely detrimental to physical and mental health. In fact, as much or more so than smoking, poor eating or diabetes.”

Henshaw said there are many issues seniors face when trying to get around on transit in the mid-island. “The maps and booklets are confusing for seniors…Many people have never ridden the bus anywhere. Then they give up their licence and ‘oh my goodness,’ it’s a huge issue.”

The two-hour program allows seniors to tour a bus, go for a ride to a major exchange and learn about the maps, fares and schedules in a small and comfortable environment. Henshaw said both previous sessions were well attended.

She said there have been immediate success stories, including a man who discovered he was allowed to take his scooter on the bus. “This particular gentleman and his wife said this has expanded his world, he gets out now on a regular basis, it just makes it so he can actually get out to social events and errands.”

The 2016 Census found seniors outnumber children in Parksville and Qualicum Beach, with a similar trend in Nanaimo. Henshaw said as our population continues to age the need for people over 55 to understand transit will continue to grow. She noted public transit is one of the most affordable options for people transitioning from driving.

“We have a number of seniors living on very small incomes and so if they can actually master taking the bus, that’s a big advantage.”

Brandon Miller, superintendent of fleet and transit service delivery for the RDN, said helping tutor seniors on how to use the local transit system is “just the start.” He said the RDN plans to expand the program, with an elementary school curriculum likely launching next year.

“(Riding the bus) can be very intimidating for all ages. That’s why we want to get into the school system and be able to start teaching and training at a young age.”

Henshaw said the goal is to have their seniors sessions become a monthly fixture. The Nov. 21 event starts at 10 a.m. at the RDN Regional Transit Office at 6300 Hammond Bay Rd. You can RSVP and learn more here.

 

dom@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @domabassi