When
a person is no longer able to drive, the effect of the loss of mobility and
freedom can be devastating. In the cases of the elderly, who may have been
driving for half a century or more, the loss is often traumatic. The loss of
freedom to access and participate in those activities that have been a staple
of life for decades can result in stress, depression and a range of other
problems, both physical and mental. The effect that this loss of mobility has,
is often not noticed by friends and loved ones because the elderly are
frequently too stubborn or proud to let others know how it affects them. Hiding
the impact and bottling it up inside only makes the problem worse and the
depression continues to grow unseen, often till it reaches a breaking point. A frequently asked question is - why can’t the
elderly use other forms of transport?
The Other Options
Public transport would appear to be an option. However, for many seniors, a bus or subway journey is often too much of a strain. Even if they are up for it, the availability is another issue. Studies show that among Americans aged 65 and older, 50% do not have access to public transport. Another study shows that half of those over 65 who do not drive, stay at home on a given day because they do not have transport options. Taxis are another option, but cost and availability, especially for the return trip, makes seniors reluctant to use them. There is always the option of rides with family and friends, but doing this can make the elderly feel dependent on others and increase the depression at the loss of freedom.
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Public transport would appear to be an option. However, for many seniors, a bus or subway journey is often too much of a strain. Even if they are up for it, the availability is another issue. Studies show that among Americans aged 65 and older, 50% do not have access to public transport. Another study shows that half of those over 65 who do not drive, stay at home on a given day because they do not have transport options. Taxis are another option, but cost and availability, especially for the return trip, makes seniors reluctant to use them. There is always the option of rides with family and friends, but doing this can make the elderly feel dependent on others and increase the depression at the loss of freedom.
The Viable Alternative
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is often the best transportation
option for the elderly. NEMT is not an ambulance service which is meant only
for transporting those in need of urgent medical care. NEMT is available to
transport the sick, elderly and mobility impaired to places they want or need
to go to which are not related to medical emergencies. A professional NEMT
company will have trained drivers and specially equipped vehicles to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for seniors and
those with mobility issues. This is a safe, convenient and cost-effective way
of enabling the elderly to regain their independence and the feeling of freedom
that goes with it. The impact that it can have on their attitude and outlook is very positive and in turn,
elevates their quality of life.
Finding the Right NEMT
When
selecting an NEMT, the first thing to
look for is the company’s track record, the range
of services, and what other users have to say about it. In particular, check
if:
- If the vehicles are wheelchair and disabled friendly?
- Is the service door-to-door?
- Is event standby available?
- What is the service area?
- Will the driver help with luggage etc.?
- What are the service hours?
- Is there any membership fee?
- Do rides have to be reserved in advance?
- Are there discounts available for senior citizens?
With
the right NEMT company, the elderly can regain the freedom they had
lost and once again have a positive attitude to life.
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