Getting older often comes with leaning on family members for support, and your elderly loved ones may be unable to do certain things for themselves. For many, driving is one of the first things they lose the ability to do, which can be difficult and frustrating. Whether you’re caring for a loved one or you’re a caregiver, consider the dos and don’ts of long-distance elderly transportation to ensure comfort and safety during the trip.
The Dos
Transportation is necessary in many cases; therefore, you should be sure to follow these dos when it comes to transporting an older adult.
Ensure Their Comfort
Comfort is key when traveling, especially on long-distance trips. If you’re responsible for your loved one, your job is to keep them comfortable throughout the trip. This could mean taking multiple breaks along the way, providing entertainment, or letting them choose the music on the radio.
Prepare Accordingly
Preparation is one of the most important aspects of traveling long distances, as you never know what could come up along the way. With that said, you should prepare for various situations by keeping snacks, water, jumper cables, blankets, and other emergency items on hand.
Consider Hiring Help
Although you might think you can do it all on your own, there’s no shame in hiring help if you need it. You may not be able to drive and care for your loved one simultaneously, so consider hiring someone to ride along or drive. If you want more assistance, you can look into long-distance medical transportation services for your loved one’s upcoming trip.
The Don’ts
Now that you know a few of the dos, you must also understand the don’ts to ensure a positive experience for your loved one.
Use Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services may seem like a great idea for older adults who no longer drive themselves, but this may cause more harm than good. If your loved one has a pre-existing medical condition, you should avoid booking a ride-sharing service to take them anywhere. The drivers are random, and they may not be able to handle potential issues that pop up.
Drive an Inappropriate Vehicle
Older adults might need more space in the vehicle to avoid feeling stiff or uncomfortable. With that said, you should avoid driving a car that’s much too small. On the other hand, they may not be able to get up into a tall vehicle. Ideally, you should choose a large sedan or SUV to transport your elderly loved one.
Forget the Essentials
Forgetting your loved one’s essentials can make for an uncomfortable or problematic trip. Not having items such as daily medications, favorite snacks, or comfortable clothing for the weather could make the journey difficult.
With these dos and don’ts of long-distance elderly transportation, you’re ready to ensure a safe and positive trip for your loved one. Traveling isn’t always easy or necessary, but you can make the best of the experience by knowing a few tips.
