Why Personal Care Services Should Include Transportation Services
According to the National Institutes of Health, transportation barriers are often cited as barriers to healthcare access. Issues with transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed procedures, and poorer health overall. Our personal care services agree that this is even more true for senior citizens. However, transporting yourself gets harder as you get older, leading many to utilize different transportation services depending on the needs. If someone gets to the age where they can’t drive anymore, there are several options that senior citizens can use when it comes to transporting themselves to important health appointments and doctor visits.
Public transportation
Most cities around the country have some form of public transportation, and it is indeed one of the cheapest and most reliable ways to get around town if you aren’t able to drive anymore. Many cities offer low-cost options designed specifically for senior citizens, and many buses are equipped to serve those with disabilities. One downside to public transportation is that it sometimes doesn’t take you to exactly where you need to be, but if a senior citizen is able to walk short distances, this is a great option.
Rideshare apps
Rideshare applications such as Uber and Lyft are only getting more popular, and that popularity isn’t just with young adults. Rideshare apps provide a quick, safe and reliable way to get to appointments anywhere they are located. Personal care service providers recommend this route if money is less of an issue and if a senior citizen is tech-savvy enough to use a modern cell phone app.
Personal Care Services
Visiting Angels is offers transportation as part of our personal care services. This is often the best option because seniors get exactly where they need to go and are being driven by someone who is equipped to deal with their specific needs. Having someone that a senior trusts driving them around can be a lot better than a random Uber/Lyft driver as well and could help put them at ease before appointments.
Being able to transport yourself is important for a variety of reasons, including the desire to feel independent. But many people fail to recognize just how important it is when it comes to health. Having reliable and safe transportation options is crucial for overall help, especially when it comes to senior citizens.