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Transportation Options for Older Adults

As we age, it becomes inevitably harder to get around without help. This is particularly true if medical issues necessitating special attention crop up. Fortunately, there are numerous ways for seniors to move around nationally, internationally and even just locally.

To begin with, senior citizens who do not feel comfortable driving can depend on family members. In case family is not around, there are many other options. Some of the examples include non-emergency medical transport, public transportation, senior shuttles and volunteer services to name just a few.

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Home Care Aides and Caregivers:

If someone does not have any family close by, they can think of having a home care aide or a caregiver to provide the required transportation, whenever needed. A lot of at-home caregivers also agree to chauffeur. Apart from home caregivers, one may also hire people who are specialists in transporting senior citizens. One can seek out such professionals by getting in touch with dedicated local agencies offering home care. In case you decide to take this road, make sure that the agency you choose holds proper background checks and screens every employee before hiring them. This is extremely important for your safety and for avoiding potential conflict.

Public Transportation

Another very popular way of moving around, particularly for those who reside in crowded cities is by using public transport. You may have access to light rails, buses, subways, shuttles and more. A benefit for older people is that local transportation systems, a lot of times, offer discount coupons or discounted fares. The cost of transportation may vary depending on the distance. However, it is normally subsidized. Buses can typically accommodate mobility scooters and wheelchairs. Some will also permit non-disabled persons to accompany elderly with no charge.

If public transportation seems a bit overwhelming, do not worry. There are several other options you can consider!

Non-Emergency Medical transportation services

In case you suffer from mobility issues or have a disability, non-emergency medical transport is your best bet as it is designed to handle seniors and their problems. Numerous agencies offer such transportation to seniors and those suffering from disabilities. They are equipped to handle all kinds of needs, even wheelchairs. Non-emergency medical transportation services can be scheduled beforehand. They offer pickup and drop off services.

Volunteer Programs

Such programs are normally run by non-profit organizations with a team of volunteers providing transportation for older people to visit the doctor's office, go shopping and more. Reservations are needed, but normally the service is extremely cheap, if at all there is a charge. The organizations encourage donations from users, if their pockets allow.

There are numerous things you must consider when picking the right transportation mode for yourself and also your loved one. The decision should depend on a range of different factors such as the residence location, age, disability and the like. When choosing a private transport make sure you choose wisely after going through the track record of the company and its reputation in the market.

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