How Public Transportation Can Improve Your Retirement

Benefits Of Using Public Transportation 

When you think about transportation what’s your first thought?  Perhaps, picking up a set of car keys? You’re not alone it’s a common response. Often people don’t think of public transportation as an alternative to driving. Why? Most of grew up driving cars. Simple and in retirement it might be the best option.

Public Transportation Makes Sense In Retirement

SAVE MONEY: Keep your money in the bank.

The experts say by using public transportation you can pocket over $10,000 a year by giving up your car. Just think an extra $10,000 without working extra hours or slashing a household budget?

IMPROVE HEALTH: It Gets You Walking.

Researchers reported a 15-minute walk while using public transportation could help millions of people meet exercise guidelines and get fitter without setting foot in a gym.

My advice: Find out the true cost of running your car. That includes: insurance, gas, registration, tires, and routine maintenance. If your car is paid off and has a low maintenance in might be worth keeping if not it might be time to downsize or consider cashing in your car!

For more tips on senior transportation and creating a transportation plan contact me during office hours, Friday 10 – 11 AM PST on Facebook: Judi Bonilla, Gerontologist.

Judi Bonilla is a San Diego gerontologist focusing on researching, developing, and teaching creative aging programs. She’s the founder of We Get Around! focused on the safety and wellness of aging drivers.

Why Public Transportation Can Save Your Retirement

Retirees enjoying their
first ride on public transit!

Driving retirement is inevitable. Research shows men outlive their ability to drive by six years and for women it's about 10 years.

What happens when you no longer driver? Who do you ask for a ride? Neighbors? Children? Grandchildren? Friends? The answer is yes. You begin to prepare for your transportation while you continue to drive.

However, like most American's you want your independence and want to remain self reliant. Riding public transportation is an excellent way to control your schedule. However, for many adults over 65 years of age it's been a long time since you've ridden the public. Here are a few ideas to get you out in your community on public transportation.

Training
Do your homework. Contact your local transportation provider to find out if they offer "Travel Instruction" or "Travel Training" classes. These classes are often available to older adults who are transitioning out of driving. Led by a trained Travel Instructor you'll learn how to plan and travel using your communities public transportation systems.

Plan your driving retirement and
learn how to use public transportation.

Education

If classes are unavailable in your community, GoogleMaps is now your best friend. For novices I suggest planning a trip to a local mall or another familiar location. In GoogleMaps you can plan and get detailed directions to your destination

Safety
Before you leave home pack light. That means removing extra money, credit cards, and jewelry. As a novice transit ride everything you experience will be new. Keep your focus on personal safety and not how heavy your bag is! I also suggest carrying a coin purse and use this to keep your exact fare and ticket.  



Travel
With age comes wisdom and also rights to priority seating. After paying your fare use the seating closest to the driver for your journey. Once you become a regular transit rider carrying a book is always an excellent way to avoid an unwanted conversation.

The important point is to get out and explore your community using public transportation. Using public transportation is a great way to maintain an active lifestyle as you age.