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SeniorsBC

Alternatives

With rising fuel costs and increased awareness of the environment, there is more and more interest in alternative forms of transportation. Alternative transportation can be as simple as walking or cycling . In many urban centres, there are convenient alternatives to full-time car ownership, such as car-sharing or car rental.

Walking and Cycling

For many seniors, walking and cycling are sensible ways of getting around their neighbourhood. As methods of transportation, they are cheap (or free), environmentally friendly, and help keep you physically fit. More and more B.C. municipalities are paying attention to the needs of walkers and cyclists. Walk BC promotes walking for people of all ages and advocates for more walkable communities. If you’re getting into cycling, the BikeSense website is a good information source on bicycle safety.

As well, local cycling organizations in Vancouver and Victoria offer information and courses for people of all ages living in those regions.

Car Sharing

If you only use your vehicle for a few hours each week or month, car sharing may be an option for you. The concept is simple: when you need a vehicle, reserve one over the phone or via the Internet. Just pick up the vehicle from its parking spot, drive it, and return it to its home location when you're done. As a car-share member, you generally pay a basic monthly fee plus a charge per hour, with no gas, insurance, or repairs to worry about.

Currently, car sharing is available in various parts of British Columbia, including Vancouver (the Co-operative Auto Network), Victoria, and the Kootenays. For more information on car sharing, visit CarSharing.ca.