By 2030, there will be around 1.4 billion seniors in the world. It’s unfair to expect all of these people to stay in their homes and never go anywhere. Being able to leave when needed or wanted is a basic necessity for mental well-being.
That’s why senior transport is such a vital part of healthy living during retirement.
Here at SummerHouse Alexandria, we want to underline the importance of transportation and show you how best to overcome the obstacles that make it seem so impossible. Continue reading to read everything you should know!
Enhance Senior Independence
As we age, our sense of independence decreases. We might need to ask for more help than before or we can complete daily tasks like we once did.
It’s because of this that the importance of senior transport is so great.
Instead of feeling helpless and stuck, seniors have the opportunity to get out of their community and do something they’ve chosen. They have the chance to make it to a doctor’s appointment without any issues.
They maintain control over their life, which can go a long way in helping seniors feel better about their lives as a whole.
Increase Well-Being
Leaving our homes can aid in letting us reconnect with the outside world. It gives us ample opportunity to improve our mental and physical well-being by:
- Breathe fresh air
- See favorite local sights
- Walk new or favorite paths
- Participate in local activities or events
- Visit friends or family
Even a few hours of this can be enough to rejuvenate and refresh a person’s well-being for the better.
Improve Social Connections
Among the best benefits of senior transport is the ability to keep up with social connections. It can be difficult to remain close to friends and family when there are no transportation options.
This lack of socialization has a strong negative impact on a senior’s mental state. They are prone to suffering from depression or loneliness. They might start isolating themselves even more which can make it more difficult for them to reintegrate with their community.
With transportation help, seniors can keep their relationships strong. They’ll feel a sense of freedom and happiness you can’t replicate any other way.
Senior Mobility Solutions
With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why enhancing senior independence with transport is so crucial. The question is: which transport options should you choose?
GPS
GPS (Global Positioning System) has come a long way since its satellite launch in 1978. These days, most mobile phones come with GPS already installed and ready for use. It can be a useful tool, but it comes with several issues that could hinder a senior’s safety:
- Difficult to figure out where to input data
- Easy to lose connection, leading to getting lost
- Hearing directions in a busy area can be a problem
- Mobile GPS might be out of date
While some seniors might find navigating with GPS a breeze, it often poses problems even for the youth of today. GPS is best used as a supplement to travel, not as your only transport solution.
Public Transport
Many people think that public transport is an ideal solution for senior transport. The problem is that it has several detriments that can make it more of a problem than a solution:
- Many areas have limited public transportation
- It can be easy to get lost within the navigation system
- Easy to get off at the wrong stop
- Limited to the strict timing of the transport, leading to missed appointments
- Seniors are more vulnerable to potential bacteria or viruses
- Potential for crowds
Even if your area is lucky enough to have flourishing public transport options, it doesn’t make navigation any easier. Plus, with the transport being so public, seniors are more likely to contract the flu or other kinds of illnesses.
If a senior suffers from an autoimmune disease or takes medication that lowers their immune system, public transport can be more of a danger than a help. Looking for another transportation option is better for overall safety.
On-Demand Ride Services
Hiring on-demand rides can often seem like a good compromise when it comes to traveling. You can call for a ride when you need one, and it’s more private than public transport options. However, some issues you could run into include:
- Expensive rates
- Leaving yourself vulnerable to scams
- Unreliable drivers
- Dirty conditions
Not all on-demand service providers will be the same. One time you’ll have a wonderful experience while the next could leave you feeling frazzled and uncomfortable.
It’s a risk you’ll take every time you hire these services, so it’s good to consider more stable options first.
Elderly Transportation Services
Of all the transport options, many feel that the services offered by assisted living are the way to go. Instead of relying on public ingenuity or strangers, you’ll enlist the help of trained staff you already know.
They’ll assist you with making appointments or scheduling. They’ll make sure you stay safe the entire ride to your destination.
The main drawback to these services is availability. Depending on your community, the transport may be in use when you want to utilize it. However, the importance of your travel will often impact the availability and rearranging of a set schedule to help you out.
All of these reasons are why SummerHouse Alexandria offers transport as part of our community services. We want to make certain our residents have as much independence as possible while remaining safe. We’ll work together to ensure you have the chance to travel to local areas as much as possible.
Make Senior Transport Simple With SummerHouse Alexandria
When it comes to finding the perfect solution for senior transport, nothing beats the safety and convenience of a trained staff and community willing to work with you.
At SummerHouse Alexandria, we take senior independence seriously. We offer versatile transportation services to help seniors go where they need without any hassle. We also have a Fast Track program for seniors to move into our community within 24 hours when necessary.
Contact us today and we’ll work together toward a transport care plan that’ll help you find new enjoyment in your life!
