Seniors feel unsafe on streets, report says

Americans over 50 are trying to drive less, but, according to a poll by the Washington-based AARP, nearly half of the survey respondents say they do not feel safe crossing the main roads in their communities. AARP analyzed government pedestrian fatality data and identified the 10 worst states or regions for fatalities involving pedestrians over 65, with Hawaii topping the list. However, the association pointed out that many states and cities are adopting “complete streets” policies to improve pedestrian safety. “More cities and states are adopting policies requiring their transportation agencies to ensure that roads are routinely designed or redesigned for all modes of travel,” said Elinor Ginzler, AARP’s senior vice president for livable communities, in a statement. Complete streets programs in Sacramento, Calif., and Kirkland, Wash., include extra-wide sidewalks and flashing lights embedded in crosswalks at busy intersections. More information on complete streets programs is available at http://www.completestreets.org/documents/cs-gasprices-print.pdf.

10 states with most fatalities involving pedestrians over 65 years old

1. Hawaii
2. Alaska
3. New York
4. California
5. New Mexico
6. Delaware
7. New Jersey
8. Florida
9. The District of Columbia
10. Arizona