Whether you are a senior or someone who has limited mobility, there are several factors that impede our ability to effectively operate a motor vehicle. A decline in eyesight, mobility, and reaction time are a few prime examples for seniors, and sometimes an accident or injury could lead to the need for help with transportation.
The loss of a driver’s license can sometimes feel like a loss of independence. Not being able to drive can make it that much more difficult to carry out every day tasks. It may mean a decrease in social activity because it is no longer convenient to visit friends and family.
However, having to give up your driver’s license does not necessarily mean you have to give up anything else. There are options.
Eventually it becomes no longer in our best interest to continue driving for our own safety as well as the safety others. At this point, we must look for other safe and reliable methods of transportation.
Transportation Options
- Friends and family
- Home care assistance
- Public transit
Friends and Family
This tends to be the first option many seniors explore when they are no longer able to drive on their own. This can be a good option when your friends and family members are available, but may not be the most reliable option. Friends and family have their own routines and schedules to worry about, and may be busy at times transportation assistance is needed.
Home Care Assistance
Caregivers at home care providers like Affinity Health can be very helpful with transportation needs for anyone with a disability or mobility issues. There are a few options caregivers can offer.
The first option is using our client’s vehicle for transportation. The caregiver will drive the client’s vehicle to any appointments or outings necessary. This involves getting a copy of the caregiver’s driver’s license, the client’s insurance, and signing a waiver.
The second option is to use the caregiver’s vehicle. This is only possible if the caregiver has a vehicle they don’t mind using. It will involve a gas and mileage fee covered by the client, as well the signing of a waiver.
The third option is taking a taxi, Uber or Lyft. The costs for this option will be covered by the client, who will be accompanied by the caregiver on the excursion.
Public Transit
Depending on the location of the client’s home, public transit may be an option. Public transportation is an affordable option for those that have a bus, streetcar, or subway stop near their house.
Caregivers are also available to accompany clients on public transit.
For more information on transportation for seniors or anyone with a disability or mobility issues, please contact our office.
