In recent months , Councils , Local Authorities are tightening their belts and reducing 'costs'. The country , it seems, hasn't enough resources to spend on 'services' and 'support' any longer. These facts are fairly well-known and indeed most citizens do understand this and are trying their best to be 'accommodative'. Inflation is beginning to rise , investment-interests are abysmally low . utilities are becoming more and more expensive ; I only mention a few which affect the pensioners in particular. Steady reduction in the prices of electronic gadgets ( thanks to Chinese imports) doesn't really matter to older people in general.<p>
Public transport in the country , although not superb, mostly provides for the elderly. With the bus pass or senior rail card, they get a reasonable deal and use them on a regular basis. <p>
In this context , it should be borne in mind , that going out and about and mixing with people , do help both the physical and psychological health of the elderly. House bound older individuals , especially living alone, deteriorate quickly and may 'lose the will to live' . This is why various charities offer home visits and 'good-neighbour' support to many, where it is feasible. Many others residing in the country, do travel to meet with friends , attend social events, pensioners' luncheon etc AND MOST OF THEM USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT ! And despite all its shortfalls and inadequacies , it still remains a very essential and useful service. <p>
What unfortunately is beginning to happen now , is, many councils are withdrawing such rural transports. Many routes are being closed down without any other provisions. Country residents , with their own private transport are okay , but the old is suffering.....
It is important that our 'authorities' do appreciate this and accepts rural bus service as essential to many ; absence of which will actually 'increase' cost at a different area. Indeed it is NOT just a Bolton issue - but everyone must understand the implications of such cuts . The young mothers with children but without a car are also in a similar situation - it is general 'social' problem.
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