Helping your parents or grandparents get to their doctors’ appointments and other important functions isn’t always easy, especially if they use a wheelchair. If you have a loved one who cannot drive themselves, you may take on the responsibility of getting them where they need to go—but you can’t always do it yourself. Follow along for three tips for transporting seniors and the disabled.
Use an Accessible and Comfortable Vehicle
The vehicle you use to transport your loved one is imperative. For example, you can’t expect them to feel comfortable in a tiny sports car or for them to get up into a tall truck. With that in mind, you should be sure to transport your loved one in a vehicle that’s accessible for their needs and comfortable enough for them to travel in for short and long distances. A minivan or transport van will be the best possible car for their needs.
Do Everything To Make Them Comfortable
Traveling can be overwhelming and stressful for some people, especially those with health conditions. Although your loved one might not want to be in the car, they do need to get to their necessary appointments. While it may seem as though you’re doing them a favor by driving them around, they don’t have much choice since they can’t drive. With that in mind, you should do everything in your power to make sure they’re comfortable.
Ask if the temperature is okay for them, offer to play their favorite music to keep them calm and happy, and bring their favorite sweater or blanket to keep them comfortable. You should also bring some water and a snack, depending on how long they’ll be in the car.
Hire a Transport Service If Necessary
Although your loved one may prefer you drive them around, there’s nothing wrong with hiring a transport service if you’re unable to care for their needs and drive simultaneously. Many non-emergency medical transportation companies provide long-distance medical transportation for those who need to travel more than 300 miles and need continuous medical care or medication administration.
Hopefully, these three tips for transporting seniors and the disabled will help you make your loved ones comfortable on the road. Although traveling becomes increasingly limited as they continue to get older, it’s sometimes inevitable when it comes to their medical appointments and overall health.
