Older people may be ‘confined’ to home over travel amenities.

The elderly in Scotland could be effected by a lack of transport available to them, a report has suggested

17:27 25 March 2013

A new study by the WRVS suggests that a number elderly people could be feeling the effect of there being a lack of public transport available to them.

 

The charity group claims that thousands of older people in Scotland may be feeling ‘trapped’ at home if they don’t have the means to get out and about.

 

Those people involved in the study were over the age of 75 years old, and according to the report a number of them were found to not use transport intended for the general population.

 

A figurehead from the WRVS commented on the situation, saying: “Older people shouldn't be confined to their own homes simply because they can't access to transport.”

 

Adding: “Getting out and about is a basic necessity that many of us take for granted but this report shows it isn't so straightforward for older people, who may have mobility issues, and we know this can have a devastating impact on wellbeing”

 

However, it is worth noting that when it comes to travel, there is a travel option available with no charge attached for those people aged 60 and above in the country.

 

WRVS is a charity who helps the elderly. It was previously known as the Women's Voluntary Service.