Transportation Options For Older Adults
Have you ever thought about what would happen if the transportation you use is no longer an option? How would you continue to maintain your independence so that you could continue with your daily routines? Who would you turn to for assistance? People often look to friends or relatives to assist with transportation – this may be a good option for you, but it is not always the most convenient for you or for them.
Transportation Options
- Volunteer Driver Programs: Local faith-based and nonprofit organizations frequently have a network of volunteers who offer flexible transportation for shopping, doctors’ appointments, recreation, and other activities.
- Paratransit Service: Public transit, aging organizations, and private agencies provide door-to-door or curb-to-curb transportation using mini-buses or small vans (vehicles for less than 25 passengers).
- Door-through-Door (Escort) Service: Private agencies provide drivers or escorts who offer personal, hands-on assistance by helping passengers through the doors of their residences and destinations, as needed.
- Public Transit/Fixed Route Service: Public transit agencies provide bus and rail services along established routes with set schedules on a non-reservation basis — also referred to as “public transportation” or “mass transit”.
- Travel Training: Public transit agencies and local aging organizations provide free, hands-on instruction to help older adults and persons with disabilities learn to travel safely and independently within public transit systems.
- Taxi Service: Passengers activate this service by calling a dispatcher to request a ride between locations of their choice. Trips usually can be scheduled in advance or on the spot.