At your mom’s last medical appointment, her eye doctor said it’s no longer safe for her to drive. Her vision has worsened. You don’t know how to get her around. While you can drive her on weekends, transportation, when you’re at work, is impossible. Here are four ways to make sure your mom has a ride when she needs one.

Senior/Special Services Transportation.

Many states have agencies that provide low-cost transportation to people with disabilities and the elderly. The vans are suitable for wheelchairs and meet the needs of people with mobility or impairments that keep them from driving.

To use one of these transportation services, you usually have to call to arrange a ride a day or two in advance. You pay a small fee for each ride, often using a ticket or pass that’s bought in advance. On the day a ride is needed, the driver usually shows up a little early to help your mom get on the bus safely. If other riders take longer, there may be a slight delay. It’s best to schedule the ride to allow for these delays.

Public Transportation.

If your mom lives in an area where public buses or subways are available, she may be able to use those services to get to stores, medical offices, and friends’ houses. A monthly pass makes it easy to use the transportation services as often as desired.

Check into discounts. In some states, seniors receive free rides on buses, trains, and subways by providing a valid ID and proof of age. Other states offer senior discounts that drastically cut the cost of using transportation.

Taxis.

Taxi service is more expensive, but it’s convenient for last minute transportation needs. Your mom calls for a taxi before she needs it and gets a ride to wherever she needs to go. When calling for a ride, ask if there are senior discounts offered. Some taxi companies do extend discounts to the elderly. If not, there are services like Lyft and Uber that can be more affordable.

Home Care Services.

Would your mom benefit from other home care services? Could she use someone to help her do the laundry or join her for daily walks? Caregivers cook meals, help with light housework, and offer medication reminders. These are just a few of the ways a caregiver helps your mom with activities of daily living.

Home care services include everything from companionship to transportation. Learn more by calling an agency near you.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring home care in Millstone, NJ or the surrounding areas, please call Independence Home Care today at 609-208-1111 for more information.