moving to hawaii (Kahului, Kihei, Wailuku: apartments, bus, public transportation)

[georgiabelle]

Thinking about moving to the islands. Haven't decided which one yet though
not Oahu since I was there so much as a kid. Now I'm 55 years old and single and on disability (s.s.i.) due to a back problem. I'm putting in apps.
for HUD housing apartments. Any information would be appreciated. The
vog concerns me on the Big Island. I have applied for housing on Hawaii,
Kauai, Maui. Due to expenses I'll just come over with my suit case and not
ship my stuff over and redecorate from what I find on the islands. And
that is senior housing that I'm applying for since I'm disabled. Also I'll give up
my car days and use public trans. over there.
Like I said any information will be of great help.
Namaste.

[hotzcatz]

If you don't have a car, Oahu is probably the best choice since they have a good bus system. Not having a car pretty much limits you to Oahu although I don't know if Maui & Kauai have any sort of good public transport systems. There is a very minimal bus system on Hawaii but it isn't really all that useful. It is also being funded by a grant which may run out in several years so it may not be there when the grant runs out. If you need extensive medical services or any sort of larger hospital, all of those are on Oahu, too.

Well, if you are only bringing a suitcase, consider also getting a round trip ticket with an open-ended return on it so if things don't work out for you there will be a "plan B" available. You can fill in the details of "plan B" to fit your specific situation.

[whynot?]

I pretty much agree with hotzcatz. Maui has only one hospital if your disability necessitates any kind of regular care. It's in Wailuku and very accessible to Kahului, but not so much Kihei, Wailea, West Maui (including Lahaina), and/or North and East Maui. These areas are served by tiny walk-in type clinics for limited hours. Maui's public transportation is improving, but is limited.

[georgiabelle]

Thank you. Your very helpful.
T.