maa@ssc-bee.UUCP (Mark A Allyn) (10/29/85)
> >I strongly feel that the car is not as necessary as many feel. > > Not to flame you, but I assume and correct me if I'm wrong: > > a) your under 50 and in good health. > b) your not on welfare/social security/retirement. > > My point: In most places in the USA is neccessary especially if you are > elderly you need a car. I've lived in Europe and I think America really First of all, I whole heartily agree with you about the transportation system here in the 'states. When I visited Japan a few years back, I almost cried. As far as myself, you are correct on both counts. However, I do know of several people both in the local bicycle club and outside, who meet neither criteria above and many others who are way over fifty who are active cyclists here in the Seattle area. In fact, some of them are in much better condition than the younger folks including myself (i am 32). As far as welfare and social security, I would think that would make it easier since there would be no need for commuting and having to be up and about breathin the air during the heavy rush hours along with everyone else. Since I think most welfare, social sec, and retirement checks are mailed to one's home, there should be no real need for any regular 'commuting' with the exception of grocery shopping and the like. In many town, especially smaller ones I am aware that there IS an effort to help the elderly with shopping needs and such with community and church sponsored mini vans used just for this purpose of carting around those who are infirm. Finally, I would like to point out that I strongly believe (and I could be wrong and correct me if so) that as long as I continue to ride and maintain my physical activity to the extent that it is now for the rest of my productive years, that I will be most probably be able to maintain a reasonable sence of sound fitness and health into my senior years and thus maintain my freedom from dependence on an automobile. Mark A. Allyn !uw-beaver!ssc-vax!ssc-beaver!maa