Navy veteran featured in video inspires seniors to stay independent using bus system
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POCATELLO — A new video from the Southeast Idaho Council of Governments is helping local seniors gain confidence using the Pocatello Regional Transit bus system, highlighting local Navy Seabee veteran Roger Armstrong as an example of independence and resilience.
As the designated Area V Agency on Aging and Economic Development District for Southeast Idaho, SICOG provides vital services that support older adults, including transportation training, nutrition programs and caregiver support in Bannock and surrounding counties. SICOG empowers seniors to stay active, engaged and self-sufficient in their communities through these efforts.
Armstrong, a longtime Pocatello resident and active participant at the Pocatello Senior Citizen Center, is featured in the video as part of SICOG’s travel training initiative in partnership with the bus system, known as PRT.
With vision loss caused by macular degeneration, Armstrong can no longer drive. However, he doesn’t let the challenges slow him down. He now utilizes PRT’s fixed-route bus system to get where he needs to go.
“We’re all getting older. The key is to keep moving. You’ve got to stay active and keep moving,” said Armstrong. “The bus system makes it easy to get where you need to go.”
Through its Area V Agency on Aging, SICOG is committed to improving mobility and access for older adults throughout Southeast Idaho. The travel training program is one of several services offered to help seniors maintain independence by teaching them how to use public transit safely and effectively.
The video highlights key elements of the training, including how to read bus schedules, recognize landmarks, and follow safe travel practices. It also showcases PRT’s ADA-accessible buses, which include wheelchair ramps and other features designed to meet the needs of all riders.
The video, produced by Idaho State University intern Braden Bird, can be viewed here.
“This is such a great video,” said Laurie Bauer, transportation programs manager at SICOG. “It shows how impactful transportation service can be in everyday life helping people stay independent and get around.”
Bauer emphasized that although seniors are highlighted in this initiative, PRT isn’t just for seniors. The transportation service is for people of all ages with transportation needs.
In fact, PRT is offering a free Summer Youth Pass for riders 18 and under, allowing unlimited rides on fixed-route buses to any stop from May 27 to August 30. The pass helps youth access the library, pool, work and friends throughout the summer at no cost.
Passes are available at several locations, including PRT, Ross Park Aquatic Complex, Portneuf District Library, Marshall Public Library, Life: A Center for Independent Living and the Community Recreation Center. For more information, call (208) 234-2287 or visit pocatellotransit.com
SICOG and PRT offer the training to anyone interested in using the transit system in Pocatello and Chubbuck. Sessions are hands-on and tailored to each participant’s needs, aiming to make public transit approachable for people of all ages and abilities.
To learn more about SICOG’s transportation and aging-related programs, visit SICOG Transportation & Mobility.