Local Transport for Senior Citizens

Age, lack of vision, and frailty are a few things that restrict senior citizens from driving their own vehicles. Fortunately, there are a variety of different ways through which they can get in and around the cities easily.

Public Transport
Senior citizens are offered special discounts for public transportation such as buses, taxis, metros, and the like. Public transportation certainly comes in very handy in states such as California where the traffic is excruciating and shuttle system highly developed. Moreover, nothing compares to sitting in the passenger’s seat when traveling to a destination. Hence, public modes of transportation become a healthier option as they put less strain over the individual’s body.

Senior Transportation Programs
Some communities also provide transportation programs wherein citizens volunteer to take the elderly to and from doctor's appointments, events, and several other activities. There are also many transportation providers that offer discounted rates, making each ride almost half the price. Several church groups also volunteer to take seniors to destinations, like grocery stores, appointments and the like. These groups tend to vary from city to city based on what the municipality might have set up.

Family
Several family members offer to take their older relatives wherever they want to go. This is to give back to the people who have taken care of the family during their younger years. Paying a young adult who has just received his license to take his relative around as part of the pocket money is also a great idea. This will only be a few times every week and is a good way to help the children bond with their older relatives.

Senior Shuttles:
Senior shuttles are financed in some communities, and are also normally available for the elderly in assisted living facilities. These buses transport seniors from their home to different locations, such as grocery stores, friend's house, and the like. These vehicles either return later or wait to pick the senior to take him/her back home.

Tips To Keep Public Transport A Safe Method:
There are a few precautions that must be taken when traveling in a public transit system. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
  • It’s good to stay alert while traveling. Older people must be advised to support themselves when the automobile is slowing down or turning.
  • When seniors enter any type of public vehicle they must be aware of the uneven or slippery surfaces that can make them fall or twist an ankle. Also, they must keep the gap between the pavement and the step in mind. It’s important to be careful not to walk into the gap.
  • They should be aware of their capabilities. Enough time must be given to use a crossing, particularly when the weather is bad.
  • They must always wear a safety seat belt. The belt helps to keep the body steady during the whole ride and is an important safety feature normally neglected.
With a few simple steps and a little thought, senior citizens can enjoy their independence irrespective of their age.

As it is sometimes dangerous for the elderly with impaired faculties to drive a motor vehicle, it is essential that substitutes be available. Fortunately, there are several other means for the disabled and senior persons to travel around. Using buses or calling a family member can help them stay active and independent. Apart from this, seniors who live in the suburban or rural areas can also depend on taxis. Yellow cabs come in very handy as they offer privacy and can travel to places where buses can’t. For long distances, a cab may be a little cost-prohibitive, but certainly the most comfortable.

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