Many older adults resist the idea of giving up their car keys, even when it is no longer safe for them to drive. Giving up a degree of independence and mobility is difficult, especially if the person lives in a rural area where transportation options are limited. Geographic location, income, health and disability status, and existing social supports shape the transportation needs and preferences of older adults.
Transportation resources vary in each community. Finding services can be challenging, but places to investigate include the following:
- Area Agencies on Aging: each state has a Department on Aging or Area Agency on Aging that can provide information on transportation services. Some states provide low or no-cost van or taxi services for older adults and people with disabilities.
- Senior centers and adult day care centers can often provide information and assistance to link older adults with needed services.
- Community-based agencies, civic groups, and nonprofit organizations. In particular, agencies that offer programs for seniors or that manage state or federally-funded services for older adults can be a good resource to consult regarding the availability of transportation services.
- Faith-based organizations: Churches, synagogues, and other faith-based organizations may offer volunteer ride services to seniors.
For a variety of reasons, public transportation such as buses are often not a practical solution for older adults. Accessible transit services may be lacking in rural areas, and bus routes may not take the older adult where he/she needs to go.
Other options include:
- Taxi or car services such as Uber or Lyft. However, these services may be limited or very expensive in rural areas. Using Uber or Lyft also requires access to a Smartphone.
- Home care and homemaker/companion agencies. Some agencies can provide staff to drive clients to medical appointments, stores, etc.
- Consulting with a geriatric care manager about the resources that are available. Geriatric care managers are knowledgeable about local services for older adults, and can provide guidance and direction to older adults and their families.
