Malaga, 29.04.2025 – As societies age and urban landscapes evolve, a growing crisis threatens the well-being, dignity, and independence of millions of older adults worldwide. Social isolation, mobility challenges, and safety concerns are systemic issues that, if left unaddressed, will drive up healthcare costs, deepen social inequality, and weaken community resilience.
To tackle these pressing challenges, GIA Longevity is partnering with Uber to develop innovative mobility solutions for seniors and other vulnerable populations. This collaboration will focus on affordable, accessible, and safe transportation, ensuring individuals can attend medical appointments, engage in social activities, and maintain independence.
“When seniors have reliable transportation, they remain connected to their communities, receive essential medical care, and experience a significantly higher quality of life,” says Frances West, a globally recognized thought leader in inclusive technology. “Accessibility is a human right, not an afterthought. By prioritizing mobility and leveraging technology, we are not just providing transportation—we are preserving dignity, independence, and full participation in society.”
The Urgency of Action
- Social Isolation: Without reliable transportation, many older adults become trapped in their homes, unable to visit family, attend social gatherings, or participate in community life. One in four older adults worldwide experiences social isolation, increasing the risk of premature death by 25–30%—a danger comparable to smoking and obesity (WHO). Limited mobility can lead to depression, cognitive and physical decline, and diminished overall well-being.
- Mobility Barriers: Over 1.3 billion people worldwide experience permanent or temporary mobility restrictions, and transportation challenges prevent one in five adults from attending medical appointments (UN). The lack of accessible transit options exacerbates health disparities and limits independence.
- Reliable transportation is crucial for aging with dignity, maintaining good health, and achieving independence.
- Road Safety: Traffic-related injuries and fatalities for both pedestrians and drivers impact older road users disproportionately compared to younger people. There is an urgent need for independent mobility solutions for people to access their communities with safety and confidence.
The Positive Impact of Accessible Transportation
Expanding safe and reliable transportation options empowers older adults to live healthier, more engaged lives by:
- Increasing Healthcare Access – Ensuring seniors can attend medical appointments improves disease management and reduces hospitalizations.
- Combating Social Isolation – Independent, reliable transport means older adults can stay connected, reducing loneliness and the associated health risks.
- Enhancing Traffic Safety – Reliable mobility and delivery alternatives can reduce traffic incidents and pedestrian fatalities.
- Boosting Economic and Community Participation – When older adults can move freely, they contribute to local economies and engage in lifelong learning and volunteerism.
Building a resilient and inclusive mobility ecosystem requires collaboration across governments, businesses, and civil society. Through their partnership, GIA Longevity and Uber are driving meaningful change by promoting mobility and delivery solutions that older adults need to remain active, healthy, and connected to their communities.
For more information on this initiative, visit https://gialongevity.org/ or contact info@gialongevity.org
Sources:
- World Health Organization (WHO). “Social isolation and loneliness.” WHO Website
- World Health Organization (WHO). Risk Reduction of Cognitive Decline and Dementia. WHO Report (PDF)
- United Nations (UN). Transport and Mobility for Older Persons and Persons with Disabilities. United Nations Report (PDF)
- United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA). Ageing and Disability: Ensuring Safe and Accessible Mobility. UN DESA Report (PDF)