SLCNA Report February 2020 - Report - Page 21
The nearly 50% of respondents “living alone” may correlate with their concerns with isolation, mental
health (depression and anxiety), and transportation issues. Socialization, activity, and pet interaction
were all mentioned as a need to improve the health and well-being of older adults in south central
Pennsylvania.
4. Do you drive a car?
Yes
No, no longer drive
No, do not own a car
Other
Groups A & B Combined
93.7%
6.2%
0%
0%
Though almost all focus group members replied that they are still driving, there were still a wide array of
responses regarding transportation concerns and challenges. Much of these responses appeared to be
anecdotal, referring to a loved one or friend having difficulty with securing reliable, safe, and affordable
transportation. They may also have been projecting these concerns knowing that their own ability to
drive may be limited in the near future.
5. Do you have access to the Internet?
Yes
No
Groups A & B Combined
75.2%
24.7%
A majority of participants shared they have access to the internet; however, the question does not delve
into how computer savvy they really are. For a quarter of the group, not having access to the internet
could help explain why some responded they’ve had issues registering and getting appointments online.
The more automation and technology becomes part of the health care and long-term care experience,
the more important access will be to the internet. As suggested by the Stakeholder groups, technology
tutoring and more user friendly portals and sites must be considered.
6. How often do you feel safe in your
neighborhood?
Always
Often
Sometimes
Rarely
Never
Group A
61.5%
30.7%
7.6%
0%
0%
Group B
93.7%
6.2%
0%
0%
0%
Groups A & B
Combined
77.6%
18.5%
3.8%
0%
0%
According to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation 2014-2016 County Health Rankings (CHR), there
were only an average of 86 reported violent crimes committed in Cumberland County as compared to
403 in Dauphin County (based on number of reported violent crime offenses per 100,000 population).
Yet, nearly 93% of those living in Harrisburg/Dauphin County (Group B) rated “always” feeling safe in
their neighborhood versus just 61% in Mechanicsburg Cumberland County (Group A). CHR also ranks
Cumberland County 8 out of 67 for “quality of life” versus 60 out of 67 for Dauphin County.
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