Informal social support and use of a specialized transportation system by chronically ill older adults

Aging is commonly associated with an increase in chronic disease and disability, affecting access to transportation. This study examines factors that contribute to the decision to use Handy Dart transportation (a handicap-specialized service) among 869 elderly, chronically ill residents of a metropolitan region in British Columbia. Drawing on Chappell's complementary model of support, the authors hypothesized that informal social support will be positively associated with specialized transportation service use. The authors employ the Andersen-Newman model of health use to help organize the other expected predictors. Results of logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of regular social Support, a positive attitude about Handy Dart helpfulness, being retired, disability because of arthritis, and perceived ill health were the strongest predictors Of use. Age, gender, marital status, knowledge, and number of comorbid illnesses did not predict use of the service. The results are discussed within the context of changing needs for specialized transportation services.