As a caregiver, one of your major concerns is ensuring that the person you care for can live as independently and comfortably as possible. But as we age or conditions worsen, driving safely becomes less accessible. Despite this, in most areas of the U.S., personal transport is essential to life.
Whether it's for medical appointments, grocery shopping, or just getting out to enjoy social activities, reliable transportation isn’t optional. Most of the cities in our county aren’t walkable unless you live very centrally. Thankfully, however, Orange County offers a variety of options to help seniors and people with disabilities stay mobile, even if they can’t drive themselves. In this guide, we'll explore the transportation services available to help caregivers get their loved ones where they need to go. Let’s dive in.
Transportation Challenges for Seniors and those with Disabilities
Seniors and individuals with disabilities often face unique challenges when it comes to getting around. Living rurally, worsening vision, slow reaction times, and mobility issues, (such as difficulty walking, using a cane, or needing a wheelchair), can make traditional transportation difficult.
Health conditions like arthritis, stroke, or dementia can further limit their ability to drive or use public transit safely. Without a reliable way to travel, someone may experience social isolation, missed medical appointments, and a decreased quality of life.
As a caregiver, it’s important to have a range of transportation options to ensure the person in your care can get out of the house and maintain their independence.
Senior Transportation Options in Orange County
In Orange County, there are several services designed specifically for seniors and individuals with disabilities who need help getting around. Let’s comb through a few options.
1. Public Transportation
Admittedly, public transportation isn’t a great option for everyone because of limited route options, but it is an option for some and is therefore worth mentioning.
Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA)
OCTA is the main public transit provider in the county, and it offers a range of services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Seniors aged 60 and over can get discounted fares on regular bus routes, making it a more affordable option for day-to-day travel.
OCTA Access
OCTA also offers a specialized service called "OCTA Access," which is a transit service designed for individuals who are unable to use regular bus services due to mobility issues. This service is available to seniors and people with disabilities who meet specific eligibility requirements.
Metrolink
For seniors who need to travel longer distances, Metrolink offers train services across Southern California. Seniors can purchase discounted Metrolink passes, which makes it easier and more affordable to travel between cities.
2. Senior Ride Programs
Several programs in Orange County are specifically designed to help someone get where they need to go. These programs often offer rides for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and more.
OC Go Senior Mobility Program (SMP)
The OC Go Senior Mobility Program (SMP) helps seniors who don’t have access to a car or public transportation. It provides funding to help cities organize transport through private vehicles. Your city officials should be able to confirm if the program has been funded in your area.
Age Well Senior Services Transport Program
Age Well is a nonprofit organization in Orange County that provides transportation for low-income seniors to and from non-emergency medical appointments at specific medical facilities. Participants must be at least 60 years old and live within the South Orange County designated service area.
Care 22
Care 22 is another supporting service that offers medical transport for seniors within Orange County. This is great for seniors who need rides to or from scheduled procedures, for example. See a full list of their available services in your area here.
Ridesharing and Taxi Services
For seniors who prefer a more flexible option, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft can be a great choice. These services are available throughout Orange County and allow caregivers to book rides quickly using a smartphone app. Ridesharing services can be especially helpful for last-minute trips, and there are even options to request a ride in a vehicle that can accommodate a wheelchair or other mobility aids. Abrazar
Abrazar offers a Senior Mobility Program and a Senior Non Emergency Medical Transport program throughout most of Orange County. The Senior Mobility Program transports seniors to and from our community centers. Local field trips for groceries and shopping are scheduled throughout the month. The Senior Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Program (SNEMT) is funded through the Office on Aging (OoA) by the County of Orange. The program was developed to provide Seniors with access to non-emergency medical appointments including but not limited to dialysis, therapy, dentistry, prescription pick-ups, lab tests, and medical imaging.
Volunteer Driver Programs
Some nonprofit organizations, churches, and community groups run volunteer driver programs where volunteers provide free or low-cost rides for seniors. These programs are usually aimed at seniors who cannot afford other types of transportation. They can be an invaluable resource for those who need regular assistance getting to medical appointments or running errands.
For additional information and availability of transportation options, please check out the Office on Aging Orange County’s online resource database: Orange County Office on Aging Community Resources. Additionally, each city may have their own unique transportation services and support.
Tips for Caregivers Using Transportation Services
While there are many options for senior transportation in Orange County, it can still be overwhelming to figure out which service is the best fit – and not all needs can be filled using these programs. Here are some tips to help caregivers navigate the different options:
Plan Ahead: Many services, such as OCTA Access and volunteer ride programs, require advance scheduling. It’s a good idea to plan ahead for medical appointments or trips that require you arrive at a certain time.
Ensure Accessibility: Before booking a ride, make sure the transportation service can accommodate mobility aids like walkers, wheelchairs, or scooters as needed. Most senior transportation services are designed with accessibility in mind, but it’s always best to confirm. Many of these transportation options will allow a caregiver to be with the care receiver during the rides at no additional fee. Just let them know when you are booking.
Safety First: When traveling with a senior, especially one with health or cognitive concerns, always prioritize their safety. Ensure they are securely seated and have the support they need when getting in and out of vehicles. For seniors with dementia, consider choosing services where the driver is trained to assist with special needs.
Consider a Routine: If the senior you care for has regular appointments or activities, try to establish a routine. Many seniors feel more comfortable when they know what to expect, and having a familiar driver or transportation service can reduce stress for both you and your loved one.
Talk to a Neighbor: From time to time, you may find that no service can meet an urgent need. Talk to neighbors who would be willing to step in and help. There are lots of ways to incorporate help, such as an emergency plan, or assisting with routine things (like adding an extra gallon of milk to their weekly grocery trip to save your loved one the hassle).
Closing Thoughts: Senior Transportation Options in OC
Having access to reliable transportation is crucial for seniors aging in place in Orange County. But arranging transport to meet any gaps you can’t fulfil yourself can help to ensure that your loved one can continue to live an active and fulfilling life.
Caregiver Resource Center OC is here to provide assistance and guidance to help you do that. Check out our library of resources to help you navigate this experience. Together, we can navigate the healthcare landscape and help you provide the best possible care for your loved one(s).
Further Reading: Fitting in Fitness: Prioritizing Wellness as a Family Caregiver
It’s easy for family caregivers to feel secondary to their loved one’s more pressing needs. In this article, we’ll look at why focusing on your health as a caregiver matters, how you and the loved one(s) in your care can benefit from prioritizing exercise each day, and how to incorporate it into your routine.
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