We’re all aging from the moment we’re born. If we’re lucky enough, we grow older. While that can bring great fulfillment, it can also bring new challenges. Transportation is a big one. Many adults who can no longer drive are unable to get to doctor’s appointments, pharmacies, grocery stores, banks and other important places on their own.
More than 40% of older adults and younger adults with disabilities get rides from family, friends and neighbors, according to a National Aging and Disability Transportation Center 2021 survey.
Unfortunately, those who don’t have support from friends and family often face significant barriers to finding reliable transportation. Agerelated mobility issues may make it difficult to walk to bus stops or get in and out of vehicles safely. There may be limited access to public transit, especially in suburban or rural areas. And those on fixed incomes may find public transportation or ride-share services unaffordable.
That’s where Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) comes in. VPAS, the local area agency on aging, provides rides to life-necessary destinations when no other options are available, allowing older residents to age in place, maintain their independence, and thrive in the communities they love.
Before a recent dialysis treatment, one area resident told his senior transportation driver, “If it weren’t for VPAS, I probably would not be alive. I do not have any other means of transportation.”
He’s not alone. Though the circumstances differ, hundreds of older adults who don’t drive rely on VPAS Senior Transportation to access health care and other critical support. By reserving rides, they can attend medical appointments, screenings and important follow-up care, all of which lead to better health outcomes.
Older adults and family caregivers can learn more about the VPAS Senior Transportation Program by visiting vpas.info/senior-transportation or by calling Laynee Knick, VPAS program operations manager, at (540) 2617474.
Hoping to continue driving for as long as possible? The Virginia GrandDriver Program is a valuable resource for all drivers to extend their safety and mobility on the road. Visit granddriver.net for tools and printable resources, testing center information, access to trained CarFit experts, and more.
