Let's consider all three major forms of 'transport' - car , train and leg !! I am excluding the bus for the time being. <p>
Many constantly crticise older drivers as 'dangerous', 'incompetent' and 'totally unsuitable to drive' and some would like all drivers beyond a certain age 'banned' from driving. The facts are - a) majority of older drivers are safe and do not cause any accidents : they drive with utmost care , follow the rules and drive 'within their own limits' , 'avoiding difficult turns' , 'perhaps not driving at night' etc. Moreover the insurance companies would flush the unsuitable ones any way! And do people consider the 'social' effects of not allowing older drivers to drive?? <p>
Now the trains. Many pensioners use the trains regularly - not only the local services but the national ones to visit relatives and friends. This should be encouraged ; if the 'yomger' working ones can't come , the retired ones can visit. But unfortunately the train services are not always conducive towards the old , disabled and the infirm. Poor communication at stations , lack of lifts in station platforms, inadequate toilet facilities on the trains , not enough luggage spaces and even in longer services very inadequate or no provisions for a drink/refreshment at the seat. On top of that , many officials fail to consider the old and the infirm when the train schedules are changed at a short notice.
Last but not the least - the pedestrians. Many town centres are now being pedestrianised - a good thing and much safer for both children and the elderly; but do the older ones , the slow walkers, get enough time to cross the main roads around. Are there enough rest benches or toilets nearby, if one was needed.
Perhaps as a 'caring' society we should ponder a little over these issues some time and take remedial actions.
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