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 Puyallup—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, cognitive decline, 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.
“We try as hard as we can to have everything our memory care residents need right here at Fieldstone of Puyallup,” says Community Relations Director Talia Chipman, “but nothing replaces the experience of getting out and being active in the community.”
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. 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 Puyallup seniors
Many communities offer public transportation systems. For older adults in relatively good health, this is an obvious first choice. Look into local bus, light rail, ferries, or subway routes that can help older adults get from point a to point b. Pierce County Transit maps are available online, in a mobile app, and in paper form by special request. The agency also offers discounted fares for Medicare Card holders as well as in-person training to familiarize new riders with the routes they’ll use, how to pay, and any accommodations they may offer.
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. Pierce County paratransit vans may offer door-to-door services or fixed routes for those who are eligible.
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. 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.
At Fieldstone of Puyallup, our memory care residents have many opportunities to travel beyond their immediate community.
“We have a bus that accommodates both wheelchairs and ambulatory passengers,” explains Talia. “Depending on safety and logistics, we organize outings to various locations like Northwest Trek, where we can drive through and see animals, or the Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Lake Park during Christmas—complete with a packed to-go dinner.”
Talia adds that smaller groups can enjoy more intimate outings.
“We cater to all ages and stages, so a small group might visit a cat café or head out for donuts. The nearby valley offers beautiful views, and trips to Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park provide a chance to enjoy nature and see the Puget Sound.”
By addressing the transportation needs of seniors living in Puyallup, this network of public and private services offers residents of memory care communities and the general public 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 Puyallup? Contact us today to schedule a tour.