Description: Transportation is crucial to ensure that access to essential services
such as medical care and grocery shopping. The availability of adequate
transportation enables older persons to live independently in their communities,
helps to prevent isolation and the possible need for long-term care placement.
Many older people, who do not drive, must rely on family and friends provide much
of the transportation. But for others, it is necessary to find community resources to
provide transportation, as this vital support service may be their only connection to
the outside world.
Selecting: Transportation services vary in communities depending upon where
you live. Types of transportation that may be available for the elderly, is individual
door- to- door service, fixed route with scheduled services, or ridesharing with
volunteer drivers. A good place to start your search for transportation is your local
Area Agency on Aging. In some communities the Area Agency on Aging arrange,
monitor, and support programs that provide transportation for the elderly. Even if
your local agency doesn't provide transportation services directly, they should be able to give assistance for finding help.
Benefits: Whether you are looking for yourself, a family member or a friend, consider what type of service would best meet
your needs. Door -to-door service refers to transportation from one specific location to another, requiring advanced notice.
This type of service is based upon demand and allows the most flexibility. Fixed route and scheduled services transport riders
along an established route with predetermined stops at designated locations. Although this service provides less flexibility and
fees on a per-ride basis (that may be discounted for seniors), advanced reservations are not required. Ridesharing programs
generally arrange for older persons needing rides to be transported to specific destinations such as senior centers, adult day
care, and health-related appointments with volunteer drivers.
Fees: As mentioned, fees are usually required for many door-to-door services and on a fee per ride for fixed transportation
services but often with senior discounted rates. Many communities have developed volunteer programs with minimal or no cost
with the help and support of their local Area on Aging.
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