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 Olympia—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.
“Many families come to pick up their loved ones for outings,” says Community Relations Director Tara Harton, “because we’re conveniently located right down the street from the mall—it’s close, yet our community still feels private because of the landscaping.”
Still, 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. Luckily, there are quite a few ride options for older adults beyond having to rely solely on family. Here are a few transportation options for your loved ones.
Public transportation for Olympia seniors
Many communities offer public transportation systems. For older adults in relatively good health, this is an obvious first choice. In Olympia, Intercity Transit operates fare-free buses on routes throughout the city. Many buses have paper maps of the routes that can be used to plan trips. And, Intercity Transit also offers one-on-one or small group training 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 like Dial-A-Lift offer door-to-door services or fixed routes.
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
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.
Non-profit organizations
Many nonprofit organizations across the United States recognize the transportation challenges that older adults face and offer specialized services to help them maintain their independence and mobility.
“Senior Services for South Sound offers numerous resources for older adults in the community,” Tara explains, “and our staff can help residents access these resources, often through AAAs (Area Agencies on Aging).”
At Fieldstone of Olympia, staff makes sure residents have opportunities to get out for activities, medical appointments, and leisure.
“Outings and transportation are coordinated through our front desk, with specific dates designated for senior drives and activities,” says Tara. “Memory care residents, for example, enjoy two bus trips a week, including scenic drives every Wednesday.”
Medical appointments are scheduled on designated days to ensure families can plan ahead. The transportation services handle these trips, but Tara does ask that a caregiver or family member accompanies the resident to ensure everything runs smoothly.
By addressing the transportation needs of seniors living in Olympia, 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 transportation options at Fieldstone of Olympia? Contact us today to schedule a tour.