Warning Signs of Unsafe Driving

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Preferred Care at Home

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Jun 03, 2025

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Florida - Southwest

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Transportation Options for Seniors Who No Longer Drive

Transportation Options for Seniors Who No Longer DriveGiving up the keys doesnt mean giving up independence. While not being able to drive can be a major life change, there are many reliable and accessible transportation options available to help seniors stay active, connected, and engaged in their communities.Whether it's getting to a doctors appointment, running errands, or visiting family and friends, here are several practical transportation alternatives for older adults: 1. Public TransportationBuses, light rail, and subways can be a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially in urban areas.Benefits: Senior discounts are often available. Fixed routes and schedules make planning easy. Many systems offer priority seating and wheelchair access. Tips: Check with your local transit authority about reduced fare programs for seniors. Consider traveling during non-peak hours for a more comfortable experience. 2. Senior Transportation ServicesMany communities offer transportation specifically for older adults through local agencies, non-profits, or senior centers.Features may include: Door-to-door service Help with boarding or carrying bags Medical appointment transport How to access: Check with your local Area Agency on Aging, senior center, or county health department for programs in your area. 3. Ride-Sharing ServicesApps like Uber and Lyft offer flexible transportation, and many now provide services tailored to seniors.Benefits: On-demand transportation at your fingertips No need to carry cash Can be used for errands, appointments, or social outings Senior-Friendly Options: Some services allow family members to schedule rides. Uber Health and similar programs coordinate non-emergency medical transportation. Note: A smartphone is usually required, but there are programs that help seniors use ride-share apps with phone-based or caregiver support. 4. Volunteer Driver ProgramsThese are community-based services where volunteers drive seniors to appointments, grocery stores, or social activitiesoften for free or a small fee.Advantages: Personal and friendly service Flexible scheduling Often provided through churches, nonprofits, or community groups 5. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)If you're enrolled in Medicaid or another qualifying healthcare plan, you may be eligible for free or low-cost rides to medical appointments.How it works: Coordinated through your insurance provider or case manager Often requires advance scheduling May include wheelchair-accessible vans 6. Family, Friends, and CaregiversDont underestimate the value of a strong support system. Family members or neighbors may be willing to help with transportation, especially if a schedule is worked out ahead of time.Tips: Coordinate a regular ride schedule to reduce last-minute stress. Consider offering gas money or another small thank-you for their help. 7. Community Shuttles and Senior VansSome cities and towns operate community shuttle services that stop at popular destinations like grocery stores, libraries, and senior centers.Perks: Usually low-cost or free for seniors Friendly drivers familiar with senior riders Accessible vehicles designed for comfort and ease of use At Avondale Care Group of Pennsylvania our services are fully customizable, allowing us to create a care plan that perfectly matches your personal routines and preferences.

Tough Conversations: When Is It Time For Seniors To Stop Driving?

Tough Conversations: When Is It Time for Seniors To Stop Driving?Driving is more than just a mode of transportation; its a symbol of independence that many cherish. However, as we age, it becomes crucial to recognize when driving may no longer be safe. The decision to stop driving is significant and depends on a persons ability rather than age. The decision can be influenced by a gradual change in ability or a sudden shift due to illness or other factors.Typical changes caused by aging often affect driving abilities. For example, changes in depth perception are very normal as we age. And many people lose the flexibility that allows them to, for example, turn their head quickly to check the roadway. Others may find their reaction time slowing down. None of these changes are about the personthey are strictly about the aging body.How do we know when its time to stop driving or for our older loved one to stop? Asking this question gets to the heart of the matter: Is it better to keep society safe or for this person to continue driving? Whether youre answering that question for yourself or asking your loved one about their driving, it will help guide the thought process and the conversation. Here are some more tips.Thinking About Ones Own Driving AbilitiesFor some seniors, the realization that its time to hang up the keys comes from self-awareness of their diminishing driving skills. Recognizing signs like difficulty seeing at night can lead to voluntary decisions to limit driving. Many older adults choose to start making changes by avoiding nighttime driving or busy highways. They might also limit themselves to familiar routes or shorter trips, using alternatives for longer distances.Self-regulation is a smart way to stay safe while keeping some independence and a feeling of control. It also makes it easier for seniors to get used to other ways of getting around besides driving.Starting the Conversation With an Older Loved OneTalking to an older loved one about reducing or stopping their driving can be very challenging and should be planned with care. If someone were to tell you that you should stop driving, your natural reaction would likely be that you are losing your independence, and you might become defensive about the issue. You might worry about becoming dependent on others to do the things you want and need to do, and when. After decades of driving, the conversation probably wouldnt sit well with you.A gentle way to start this dialogue with an older loved one is by asking reflective questions that encourage self-assessment. You might ask them, Would you feel comfortable driving your grandchild? Such questions can help older adults realize the potential risks without feeling pressured. Other questions can focus on the car rather than the person. Ask questions about dents or scratches not by asking, How did you do that? but rather, How did that happen? or even Can I help you arrange to get that fixed?Right at Homes RightConversations guide can be an invaluable resource for approaching this sensitive subject. It provides structured advice on how to have important discussions like this without causing offense or distress.Exploring Alternative Transportation OptionsBear in mind that you do want to encourage your older loved one to keep getting out of the house. Losing the ability to drive can have disastrous effects on the social connections and activities we all need for our mental health.Fortunately, giving up driving doesnt mean giving up mobility. Seniors have various alternatives to driving themselves:Public transportation: Buses, trains, and subways can be excellent options for seniors, especially in cities with robust transit systems.Community senior services: Many communities offer shuttle services specifically for seniors, which can be a convenient and safe way to get around.Ride-hailing services and taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient, door-to-door service at many locations.Family and friends: They are often more than willing to help by providing rides, especially for important appointments or events. Walking: If health permits and distances are manageable, walking is both practical and healthy.The transition from driving can be challenging, but it opens up new opportunities to explore different and potentially rewarding modes of transport. With the right approach and support, older adults can navigate this change smoothly, maintaining their independence and safety.      Right at Home offers a wide range of services to help seniors remain independent. This includes transportation to appointments, leisure outings, and running errands. Other services include a myriad of homemaking/companion and personal care services. Contact Right at Home in Alabama at 251-459-8672 for more information.

Can Someone Else Drive My Car?

Can Someone Else Drive My Car? Discover what happens if someone else drives your car and gets into an accident. There are times in life when we need to let someone borrow our car, but we hesitate allowing them to use it because we don't know if we can, or if we should. We wonder:          Can my grandchild use my car to drive to the grocery store?         Can my friend drive my car?         Can my brother-in-law or other family member borrow my car for the weekend?         Can I drive someone else's car?         Will my friend's insurance cover any damages I cause while driving their vehicle?         Do irregular drivers need to be added to my policy?        At the heart of it, we want to know, "If we give them permission and they get into an accident, is it covered by my insurance? Is it legal for someone to drive my car who is not on my insurance policy?" "Generally, it's not a problem if they're driving with your consent," says Jeanne Salvatore, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and consumer spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute. "If it's an occasional use, say I borrow your car to go pick up milk, and as long as permission has been verbally granted, you'll typically be covered." But borrowing a car under other circumstances may not be as clear-cut. It depends on your insurer and your particular policy. For example, coverage rules and regulations may be different if the driver lives in your household and could, or should, be listed as a named insured on your policy, but is not; or, if the driver is listed on your policy as excluded. Those more complicated situations would need to be discussed with your agent and claim representative. Typically, even if the person driving your car has his or her own insurance, your insurance will be the primary payer for damages caused by your vehicle; but, the person driving your car has to be found legally at fault before your insurance will pay. The driver's insurance is secondary and may cover some personal injury or medical expenses. It may also provide coverage in excess of your insurance coverage, if the cost of damages caused by your vehicle is higher than your policy limits."When you have someone you employ, such as a nanny or a nurse, who will be a regular, additional driver in your household, contact your insurance agent about your policy," Salvatore recommends. "He or she may need to be added to it."Because the policy terms and state laws can vary widely, always contact your insurance agent before loaning out your car, or other motor vehicle, such as: a motorcycle, boat, personal watercraft, snowmobile, ATV or RV. "Anytime you have a question about your policy, call your insurance agent first," says Salvatore. "You always want to let the insurance company know the circumstances. Get their advice." As with anything else, use good judgment and common sense. Make sure you are fully aware of the liability you may be opening yourself, and your auto policy, up to before handing over your keys. "Don't be cavalier about lending your car," adds Salvatore. "If you know someone isn't a good driver, think twice about giving your permission. Any crash they're in could go on your insurance record."  This article was contributed by Laurel Flowers State Farm Insurance Agent located in beautiful Saraland, Alabama.  You can contact Laurel and her fabulous team for all of your insurance needs.  Call 251-675-4736.

Local Services By This Author

Preferred Care at Home

Non-Medical 912 S.E. 46th Lane, Cape Coral, Florida, 33904

Preferred Care at Home of Cape Coral and Fort Myers912 SE 46th Ln 204, Cape Coral, FL 33904LIC HMC #235830 MA#115384100 (855) 424-5683When Given the Choice, I Prefer Home.Preferred Care at Home of Cape Coral and Fort Myers is dedicated to providing high-quality senior home care services that promote independence, dignity, and improved quality of life. Our experienced and compassionate caregivers offer a wide range of non-medical services designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring they can remain in the comfort of their own home.Our ServicesWe provide a comprehensive array of services to support seniors and their families:Transition Care: Facilitating smooth transitions from hospitals or nursing homes to home, reducing the risk of readmission.Companion Care: Offering social interaction and assistance with daily activities to enhance well-being.Homemaker Care: Assisting with household chores to maintain a safe and clean living environment.24/7 Replacement Coverage: Providing continuous, around-the-clock care for complete peace of mind. Ever There Care Program: Providing added support in facilities for extra peace of mind.Our MissionSince 1984, Preferred Care at Home has been committed to celebrating life, dignity, and independence. We achieve this by referring only the most reliable, compassionate, and experienced caregivers to our clients' homes or care facilities. We recognize the financial challenges associated with long-term care and strive to offer access to quality services at affordable prices.Why Choose UsExperienced Caregivers: Our caregivers are carefully selected for their expertise and compassionate approach.Flexible Care Plans: We offer customizable care plans ranging from a few hours a day to 24-hourly services .Affordable Services: We are committed to providing high-quality care at prices that are accessible for families.Service AreasWe proudly serve Lee County area. Contact us to learn more about our service areas and how we can assist you or your loved one.Contact UsFor more information or to schedule a consultation, call us at (855) 424-5683 or visit our location at 912 SE 46th Ln 204, Cape Coral, FL 33904 . Discover how Preferred Care at Home can help you or your loved one live well at home.

Preferred Care at Home

Home Health 912 S.E. 46th Lane, Cape Coral, Florida, 33904

Preferred Care at Home of Cape Coral and Fort Myers912 SE 46th Ln , Cape Coral , FL 33905LIC HMC #235830 MA# 115384100(855) 424-5683When Given the Choice, I Prefer Home.Preferred Care at Home of Cape Coral and Fort Myers is dedicated to providing high-quality senior home care services that promote independence, dignity, and improved quality of life. Our experienced and compassionate caregivers offer a wide range of non-medical services designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring they can remain in the comfort of their own home.Our ServicesWe provide a comprehensive array of services to support seniors and their families:Transition Care: Facilitating smooth transitions from hospitals or nursing homes to home, reducing the risk of readmission.Companion Care: Offering social interaction and assistance with daily activities to enhance well-being.Homemaker Care: Assisting with household chores to maintain a safe and clean living environment.24/7 Care and Replacement Shift Coverage: Providing continuous, around-the-clock care for complete peace of mind.Ever There Care Program: Providing supplemental services in facilities for additional peace of mind Positive Approach to Care training servicesOur MissionSince 1984, Preferred Care at Home has been committed to celebrating life, dignity, and independence. We achieve this by referring only the most reliable, compassionate, and experienced caregivers to our clients' homes or care facilities. We recognize the financial challenges associated with long-term care and strive to offer access to quality services at affordable prices.Why Choose UsExperienced Caregivers: Our caregivers are carefully selected for their expertise and compassionate approach.Flexible Care Plans: We offer customizable care plans ranging from a few hours a day to 24-hour live-in care.Affordable Services: We are committed to providing high-quality care at prices that are accessible for families.Service AreasWe proudly serve the Cape Coral and Fort Myers communities and surrounding areas. Contact us to learn more about our service areas and how we can assist you or your loved one.Contact UsFor more information or to schedule a consultation, call us at (855) 424-5683 or visit our location at 10471 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, Suite 4012, Fort Myers, FL 33966. Discover how Preferred Care at Home can help you or your loved one live well at home.