Key Considerations and Transportation Options For Your Senior Loved One
For seniors who cannot drive, there are affordable public and private transportation options. However, locating, comprehending, and using these services are not as simple as one may think. The process can be time-consuming and aggravating.
It is often most effective when an adult child, social worker, or other loved one takes on researching options, registering the senior, and teaching them how to schedule and use the transportation service. There are other factors to consider, including eligibility requirements, pick-up locations, operating hours, routes, wheelchair accessibility, and the purpose of the trip. This article outlines factors and programs to consider before choosing a transportation option for your senior loved one.
Payment Assistance and Costs
The cost of transportation for seniors who cannot drive themselves varies greatly depending on a number of factors. For the same route, public para-transit services (special transportation services for the elderly or disabled) cost nearly twice as much as public transportation. If a city charges two dollars for a bus ticket, the Para-Transit Service can only charge four dollars.
Some Volunteer Driver programs may charge $5 to $10 per ride, while others may give rides away for free. Private services are significantly more expensive, setting anything from $20 to $40 per journey.
Eligibility
The eligibility requirements for supported transportation are nearly entirely determined by the type of aided transportation service. In a nutshell, one eligibility criterion is one's level of disability. However, it is conceivable for a person's handicap to be too severe for some forms of transportation assistance and too minor for others.
To be clear, some private ride providers may not accommodate the user who uses a wheelchair. On the other hand, other services may require an official "disabled" classification from the Social Security Administration (SSA). As a result, older people who have become frail due to aging may not be eligible.
Types of Programs
1. Private Ride Services
These private companies, sometimes known as Door-Through-Door services or Door-to-Door, charge riders for their assistance. These services are similar to taxis, except they are tailored to the needs of the elderly people.
Assistance is offered in getting from one's home to the car, getting in and out of the vehicle, and moving from the car to the rider's destination. Carrying baggage, loading wheelchairs, and carrying purchases bought during the outing can all be done with assistance.
A motorized wheelchair can be transported in some vehicles (at an additional charge). Some cars, known as "cabulances" (cab + ambulance), are specifically developed for those with more serious medical needs. Private Ride service firms provide more flexibility, with same-day or on-demand scheduling frequently available.
2. Volunteer Driver Programs
These are programs in which volunteers provide door-to-door transportation for elderly or disabled persons. These are independent regional programs. As a result, generalizing the specific features is challenging. It's also worth mentioning that these programs aren't available in every part of the country.
Volunteer drivers typically drive their own cars and are unable to transport motorized wheelchairs. Because there is usually only one passenger, drivers can assist their passengers in getting from their houses to their destinations. Before arranging a ride, riders must first register with the program. Specific rides must be planned, usually a day or two in advance, once you've joined up for the program as a rider.
3. The Independent Transportation Network America (ITNAmerica)
The Independent Transportation Network America is a non-profit organization that offers transportation for seniors 60 and older (some places have a minimum age of 65) and visually impaired people.
Riders are paired with paid and volunteer drivers through ITN, which charges an annual membership fee of about $50-$60 for a single rider and $60-$80 for a family. Private vehicles are accessible for rides around the clock, with no restrictions on the necessity for the ride. Drivers give "door to door" service and assistance with bags and getting in and out of the vehicle.
Who We Are
Senior Helpers of Overland Parkis the leading provider of senior care solutions in Johnson County for the last decade. Our compassionate and experienced team offers excellent in-home care and personalized care even in other locations such as assisted living facilities.
Our services are custom-made to suit the needs of our clients ranging from companionship care for seniors who need assistance with daily activities to special care for those with Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson's and other life-threatening conditions.
We can help with the transport challenge of your elderly loved one. From shopping, to visiting the doctor or friends, we have your loved one covered every step of the way. We have flexible and cost-effective options to help your seniors to live a fulfilling life. For more information on the best transport options for your elderly loved one, feel free toContact Ustoday, and we will be more than willing to assist.