24.09.12
The benefits of free travel
An Imperial College London study claims that free bus travel has increased the physical activity levels of over-65s and has brought health benefits with it. It was found that people with a free bus pass were more likely to pursue walking and other forms of “active travel,” such as cycling and public transport. Surely, this shows that the free bus pass is an invaluable service that the UK provides to its elderly citizens.
However, the scheme costs £1.1bn per year to fund and with recent cut-backs, bus passes may be in danger of becoming scrapped or means-tested. Conservative MP Nick Boles has stated that politicians face “uncomfortable choices” in cut-backs. He further states that these choices include the potential means-testing of prescriptions and bus passes for the elderly.
The over-65s are the most likely to spend over ten hours a day laying or sitting still, provoking diseases such as certain cancers, type two diabetes and dementia. Therefore, it is difficult to comprehend Boles’ belief that our most at-risk citizens should face further struggle.
The NHS has stated that remaining “healthy, energetic and independent” comes from being active in old age and has advised gentle exercise for a minimum of thirty minutes, five days a week. Due to this, it is surely vital that older people do not have their daily activities cut-off.
Guest blog by Amy Hirst
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