As we age, it’s inevitable that we’re going to have to change the way we get around at some point. How we go grocery shopping, run errands, or even just grab the mail at the end of the driveway – each of these tasks can become just a little (or a lot) more difficult the older we get.
But that doesn’t mean as senior citizens we should have to struggle!
Instead, we would like to suggest several transportation alternatives for seniors in senior care.
To start, let’s take a look at a few of the main reasons why seniors may want to consider transportation alternatives…
Decreased Mobility – Regardless of the cause – old age, an injury, or an illness – seniors can often experience a decrease in mobility as they age which can be cause for them not to transport themselves.
Deteriorating Eyesight – If your senior is suffering from illness or injury that has impaired their vision (or if they have lost their vision), this will undoubtedly impede their ability to drive altogether. It is recommended that they always seek a transportation alternative.
Chronic Illnesses – Seniors may suffer from debilitating diseases that can affect their ability to drive, like heart disease, arthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Short Distances
Perhaps because of the some of the reasons listed above, your loved one in senior care may not feel comfortable relying on or navigating public transportation in lieu of driving themselves – But don’t worry! There are still other options. Instead, we recommend that their caregiver or a family member help to transport them for short distances and help them accomplish basic tasks, like getting to a doctor’s appointment or picking up a medication.
You can also consider handling the task yourself, especially if your senior is immobile or just prefers to remain in their home, so long as the task at hand does not require their physical presence.
Long Distances
If you want to help your senior to travel longer distances, it can be a bit more of a challenge, but it is still possible! You may not have a caregiver or family member willing to drive long distances, and the cost of transportation for longer travel plans can be much higher.
To overcome these challenges, try joining a transportation network that is specific for seniors. Most transportation networks exist to serve a certain region or city and will help your senior to find the necessary transportation to travel long distances.
If you’re ready to schedule a consultation, we would love to help you discover your senior’s senior care service options! Call Home Care Assistance today to get started.