Older Vermonters who have given up driving can face isolation, loneliness

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Although Vermont’s transportation agencies often shuttle seniors to doctor’s appointments or the grocery store, the system falls short when it comes to just about anything else -- seeing friends, entertainment, spending time in nature. Those who live in rural stretches have even fewer transportation options.

As Vermont’s population ages, making it the third-oldest state, experts say the transportation gap makes isolation a growing problem. Loneliness is associated with a higher risk for health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline among older adults, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s associated with higher costs, too: an estimated $6.7 billion in additional federal Medicaid spending annually, according to AARP.

Darren Perron spoke with Seven Days’ Rachel Hellman, who reported on the story in this week’s issue.

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