Giving up the car keys for good is one of the toughest and most significant life changing events for seniors. You and your loved one probably share some wonderful memories of cross-country trips taken together as a younger family. Your dad may have been a real car buff with a long history of driving fast cars (and driving mom crazy.) Getting out on the road with the wind blowing through your hair and the open horizons ahead is one of the simplest yet greatest joys of living in this beautiful country. Losing that sense of freedom and mobility for the assisted living resident can lead to feelings of depression and isolation.
That’s why you should take a close look at what kind of transportation program is offered by senior living communities that you visit. Here are a few things to ask the administrator and/or the activities director.
Can residents arrange for transportation on a fairly short notice?
Being able to get out and about for a spontaneous visit to family or friends in the area is important for many seniors so they don’t feel trapped and limited in where they can go and when.
Is transportation easily arranged to and from medical or dental appointments?
This is no doubt a common event for nearly every assisted living resident and so it should be easily arranged to avoid stress and the need to reschedule appointments.
What kind of outings does the activity director plan for the assisted living resident?
Look carefully at the activities program, because this is a very big determinative factor in whether your mom or dad will be happy and content in their new residence. Planned outings to see holiday lights, trips to concerts and ballets, visits to public libraries and art galleries are all important to keeping seniors connected with the larger community and engaged in activities that they enjoy.
Can my mom easily get transportation to favorite shopping malls and restaurants?
A love for shopping and dining out doesn’t end with a move to assisted living. It’s important for seniors to be able to enjoy their favorite local shops and restaurants; they need a reliable transportation program to get them there and back.
Are any nature outings available?
Regular time spent in the outdoors has been scientifically linked to a greater sense of well-being and happiness. Even if dad can’t hike 10 miles anymore, he can still enjoy the great outdoors and perhaps continue his wildlife photography hobby. Find out if trips to nearby national, state or historical parks are available to residents. Ask about outings to age-appropriate hiking trails in the area if your loved one is physically capable of a hike.
What about safety?
Finally, it’s important that the senior living community provides safe and well-maintained transport vehicles. Inquire about the age of the vehicles and their maintenance schedule.
Freedom and mobility are second nature to Americans. Make sure your loved one has access to a good transportation program so he or she can get out and about on a regular basis. Tell us about your favorite outings and travel tips.
