Make Not Driving a Non-Issue for Older Adults
September 25, 2024
Remember the feeling you got when you drove the car for the first time without your parents? The world opened up and you were free to go wherever—just you and the open road. Over time, driving has become an ingrained part of life. We drive all around Bainbridge Island—to the grocery store, to work, to appointments, to see our friends. Most of us rely on driving. In fact, a survey by AAA Foundation found that 95.3% of United States residents ages 16 years and older drove at least occasionally in 2023, unchanged from 2022 and 2021. But some of the changes that accompany aging can make it harder to drive. Stiff joints and muscles, changes in vision, slower reflexes, and certain medications and medical conditions can all affect older adults’ ability to safely operate a vehicle.
And then there’s the cost. While young, inexperienced drivers typically cost the most to insure, many auto insurance companies are beginning to charge more for older drivers. The specific age at which this change occurs varies from company to company, but Forbes magazine estimates the increase to be between 15 and 20%.
Some older drivers may decide the cost of insurance and vehicle maintenance just isn’t worth it anymore. Or, after an accident or even a close call, some older adults may decide to give up the keys. But not driving doesn’t mean they stop needing to go places.
So, what happens when you can’t drive anymore? In many cases, the responsibility of transporting loved ones falls on their family members. Between scheduling, waiting for appointments, and last-minute transportation needs, family members may struggle to find time away from work and other responsibilities. And relying on family members can rob older adults of the independence to go where they want, when they want.
“It’s so important for older adults to stay active and get out into the community,” says Fieldstone of Bainbridge Community Relations Director Celia Bouse. While their senior living campus does include parking spots for residents who do drive, they are more than happy to help facilitate transportation access for non-drivers, whether it is through their community or another service.
“Our assisted living and independent living community guests have opportunities for weekly shopping trips and transportation for medical appointments,” says Celia. Outside of that, she’s happy to accommodate other requests with advanced notice.
As Celia explains, memory care residents are included in opportunities for community socialization as well. “We take regular outings with our memory care guests to get dinner or go on scenic excursions.”
Outside of the offerings at Fieldstone of Bainbridge, the following are a few local transportation options for your loved ones.
Public transportation for Bainbridge Island seniors
On Bainbridge Island, public transportation is managed by Kitsap Transit. For older adults in relatively good health, this is an obvious first choice. Look into local bus routes that can help older adults get from point a to point b. Many buses have paper maps of the routes that can be used to plan trips. Some transit agencies even offer classes for seniors to familiarize them with the routes they’ll use, how to pay, and any accommodations they may offer. Most public transportation offers a discount for older adults.
Senior transit and specialized transportation services
Public transit can be daunting. For older adults with physical or cognitive challenges, senior transport services can help bridge the transportation gap. Paratransit vans such as Kitsap Access and Vanlink or BI Ride may offer door-to-door services or fixed routes that help connect seniors to other public transit.
Local area senior centers and community venues
Some community centers, such as places of worship, offer transportation options for non-driving older adults.
Taxi cabs or ride hailing services for older adults
Many older adults are looking to ride hailing services or taxis as alternatives to senior or public transit. These options can be quicker and more flexible, but they are usually more expensive than the alternatives and can be harder to find in a smaller island community.
Non-profit organizations offering senior transportation
Many nonprofit organizations recognize the transportation challenges that older adults face and offer specialized services to help them maintain their independence and mobility. These organizations typically provide affordable or free transportation options for seniors to attend medical appointments, go grocery shopping, and participate in social activities. Some nonprofits operate volunteer-driven ride services or collaborate with public transit systems to offer reduced fares or door-to-door service.
“Bainbridge Island is small, so our options are limited,” Celia says. “Thankfully, generous volunteers with Island Volunteer Caregivers (IVC) offers older adults in Bainbridge Island transportation around the island.”
By addressing the transportation needs of seniors living on Bainbridge Island, this network of public and private services offers residents of our assisted living, independent living, and memory care communities many opportunities for socialization, community engagement, and independence long after they’ve given up the keys.
Interested in learning more about life at Fieldstone of Bainbridge? Contact us today to schedule a tour.
