We do not fully understand why elders of color underutilize aging services including transportation. There are, however, a number of barriers that have been identified as affecting the use of transportation services. The following barriers were identified during a focus group conducted by the National Caucus and Center on Black Aged for the National Eldercare Institute on Transportation. Many elders, particularly those who have not already connected with the aging network, are simply unaware of senior transportation services. Senior transportation, like any service for the elderly, is viewed as charity by some seniors.
Some seniors view eligibility requirements for services as an invasion of privacy.
Some elders cannot afford to pay for transportation services or feel ashamed if they cannot give a donation. Senior transportation services frequently require advance reservations so they are not available for immediate needs. Bus routes and schedules, often developed to serve commuters, are not compatible with the travel habits and preferences of the elderly. Seniors have little control over when they leave home or when they arrive at their destination. Senior transportation services can have a reputation of being unreliable.