Transit tutoring provides critical independence, mobility for Nanaimo seniors
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.”