Caregivers provide for a full scope of tasks throughout the lives of their loved ones. Today we are looking at the challenges of providing safe transportation when caregiving. The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (nadtc.org) offers tips for planning and providing safe and reliable transport for people with disability challenges and Alzheimer’s or dementia related disorders.
Whether you are transporting a loved one to an appointment or scheduling rides with a senior center or public transport, here are some important things to consider.
- Allow extra time. Being prepared for an appointment with ample time for travel and a little extra time for the unexpected may reduce stress.
- Speak clearly with a normal tone and speed unless requested otherwise. With a person experiencing dementia, you may be asked to re-orient the recipient during travel. Smile, listen and show respect.
- Provide simplified versions of information; consider making information available to the recipient in various formats including print, visual and auditory.
- Seek out transportation services in your community. If a care recipient needs an escort, caregivers usually ride free of charge with taxi, bus systems and senior center transportation. Getting a ride may free you up as a caregiver and reduce stress. Local senior centers and Independent Living Centers can connect you with options.
- Identify the needs of the passenger and ensure ease of access to assistive devices, such as walkers, wheelchairs, door assistance when entering or exiting the vehicle. Most transport services will help you with equipment.
Plan ahead. Make a schedule for activities, appointments and outings. Schedule rides in advance and consider making a transportation plan. Utilize planning tools and have local information on hand. “My Transportation Options” is a simple, effective way to manage information, and can be downloaded with no cost. Learn more at http://www.nadtc.org.
