Hundreds Gather for L.A. Metro’s 2nd Annual Older Adult Transportation Expo

Nearly 300 attended the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s 2nd Annual Older Adult Transportation Expo to learn about discounted fares and how to make mobility more accessible for older adults.

More than 20 organizations and services that help to solve mobility problems for older adults were on hand to answer questions and provide instruction on tools available for navigating Los Angeles without a car.

“Improving mobility is important to our region but it’s particularly important to those who may be wondering about a future in which they can no longer drive,” said Metro Board member Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker. “At Metro, we’re on your side. We believe it’s essential that older adults and others who are unable to drive have good mobility options.”

Among participating services and organizations were Access Services, the Accessibility Unit of Metro’s Office of Civil Rights, the Rider Relief Transportation Program, LADOT, Metrolink, Foothill Transit, Big Blue Bus, Bolt Bus, Amtrak and Pasadena Transit.

AARP representatives also were present to talk about the organization’s efforts to improve older adult mobility and how it is assisting Metro riders.

“AARP recognizes transportation as a critical link that connects older adults to social activity, economic opportunity and vital community services,” said Nancy McPherson, state director, AARP California. “The ability for an individual to age in place in their home and community is compromised without it. Older adults need transportation to support their independence.”

Authors Jacqueline Chase and Grace Moremen were at the expo to speak about the 24 transit adventures in their book, “Loving LA the Low Carbon Way.” By using Metro buses, trains and walking, it is possible to embark on all 24 adventures without using a car.   

Representatives of Metro’s newly expanded On the Move Riders Program were also available to explain how the program teaches older adults how to explore Los Angeles via Metro and other public transit options.

Metro’s Mobile Customer Center — which travels L.A. County to take TAP cards and services to underserved areas — was parked nearby so that participants could sign up for discounted fares for older adults.

The event also included a session to update attendees about Metro’s security and law enforcement efforts.

“With our new transit policing model, community policing projects and a revolutionary homeless task force, we are working diligently so that all patrons can safely ride our system,” Metro Deputy CEO Stephanie Wiggins said. “Older adults can rest assured that they will get to their destinations safely and securely.”