Getting around without a vehicle can plain suck if transportation services are not well organized where you live. roughly one in five seniors suffer from a mobility-related disability. Many others lose the ability to drive due to eyesight problems or cognitive decline. As a result, many seniors struggle to get out of the home, missing out on activities and becoming isolated from friends and family When seniors aren’t able to safely drive, their quality of life can suffer. It is tough on the heart to watch an older person, who is someone’s mother, father, son, daughter, brother or sister, struggle to make health check-ups, dental visits, social events, and even the grocery store when needed. They become dependent on others for travel purposes, which can become burdensome to the senior as well as the helpers or caregivers. Senior transportation services addresses this problem head-on. By giving seniors a ride to where the need to be, when they need to be there, senior transportation services make social events, errands, and appointments possible again. Getting to these regular appointments, events or activities with confidence and comfortability drives independence and quality of life for our seniors. Alternatives, such as taxis or public transportation can be unreliable or make seniors feel uneasy. HOW THIS CAN HELP SENIORS: Improved physical & mental health Getting out and staying active is greatly beneficial for seniors. Staying active helps to promote overall bodily health, while social interaction increases emotional and mental well-being, reducing feelings of isolation and depression. The ability to get to and from dental, health, and rehab appointments is a huge factor for seniors maintaining independence and a high quality of life. Door–through–door service A standard public transportation service does not offer door-through-door transportation as a part of their services. For this reason, seniors who need assistance getting out of the home will not be able to receive the level of care or safety needed to accomplish their tasks. Reduce the risk of isolation Isolation leads to depression. A trusted transportation company can take seniors wherever they need to go. Whether that be to doctor appointments, social events, senior functions or gatherings, getting out of the house and interacting with other people greatly reduces the risk of isolation. Getting out and interacting several times per week will help to maintain independence and wellbeing.
Quick tips for ensuring a safer home for seniors:
TIP #1 – Lessen the potential of carbon monoxide poisoning. Never try to heat your home with your stove, oven, or grill since these can give off carbon monoxide–a deadly gas that you cannot see or smell.
TIP #2 – Safe proof your home. Tape all area rugs to the floor so they do not move when you walk on them.
TIP #3 – Reduce risk of falls. Store frequently-used items on lower shelves in the kitchen to limit the use of stools or step-ladders. If you must use a step stool, use one with a bar to hold onto.
TIP #4 – Get annual eye exams. Ensure your glasses or contacts prescription is up to date and that you do not have any conditions that limit your vision.
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