Abby sat on her porch, enjoying the neighborhood activity. She loved staying in her home. Her family had helped her create a safe, uncluttered environment. She could cook for herself, and several of the eating places in town delivered. Her granddaughter did light cleaning and laundry once a week to earn money for a newer vehicle. Life was sweet, except . . . she was always at home. If Abby called family for a ride to the grocery store, they would ask for a list and pick it up, not realizing that she wanted to do her own shopping. If she wanted to meet her friends for lunch, Abby was, once again, dependent on a ride. Of course, her family ensured that one of them was available for Dr. appointments, but Abby knew they had to juggle their schedules. In the end, she only called when absolutely necessary.

“Good afternoon, Miss Abby,” shouted Cassidy, one of her neighbors, pausing her bike ride to chat. “How are you doing?”

“Oh, I’m doing fine,” responded Abby. “I’m enjoying the beautiful weather. Have you been busy? I haven’t seen you for a while.”

“Actually, I took on a part-time job now that our youngest is in kindergarten.” Cassidy parked her bike and walked up to Miss Abby’s porch. “I’ve been driving for the Home Care services north of town. I take people who no longer drive wherever they need to go – to doctor appointments, shopping, parties, and more. I really enjoy it.”

“Oh my! Would I be able to get rides?” asked Abby. “My family takes me now, but I try not to ask too often.”

“Of course you can, and I think you should. Using our transportation services is more than a ride! There are many advantages, such as –

1. It opens the door to visiting friends, attending parties, going to church, having lunch out, or participating in community events. The need for social interaction is essential for everyone, including seniors. It doesn’t go away just because you no longer drive.
2. It helps people stay on top of medical needs, from scheduled visits to unexpected illness requiring a sudden appointment. Perhaps you need medicine from the pharmacy. Suppose your doctor orders physical therapy or another type of ongoing care. Transportation services can provide a way—no need for your family to rearrange their schedules to get you there.
3. It helps to make traveling easier. Our vehicles are designed to be easily accessible for getting in and out. If you use a wheelchair, we offer vehicles with wheelchair ramps. Our drivers take the time to understand each passenger’s needs. They assist their passengers in and out of their vehicles, adjust their seats, and ensure their comfort as well as their safety.   
4. It helps people stay active and restores a sense of independence for those who are relying on the sporadic availability of friends and family. I have one client who goes to the Y twice a week for chair yoga. Sometimes she tops it off with a stop at the grocery store on her way home.
5. It allows those who no longer drive to still be independent and maintain control of their schedule. For example, you could schedule a hair appointment for Tuesday morning, followed by lunch with friends. Then you could sign up for the book club at the Library on Thursday. And speaking of book club, using transportation services allows more freedom to participate in local community events.
6. For seniors who depend on family caregivers, using a transportation service gives their family some relief and more energy for the rest of their responsibilities.
7. Finally, instead of adjusting their schedules to accommodate your ride needs, your family can spend a few minutes each week helping you plan and schedule our services.

So, there you have it – seven great reasons to use our transportation services. Seven ways that all add up to having more time for you and your family to enjoy one another. Instead of spending your time together riding to appointments and other places, you can invite them over for a relaxing visit.”

“Oh my, that sounds wonderful. My daughter is stopping by after work today. Can you tell her about it, too?”

“Sure, I’d be glad to do that. I’ll bring over the pamphlet and other info with me.”

Cassidy took off on her bike, and Abby sat on her porch, dreaming of lunch with her friends, grocery shopping, the book club . . .

Are you looking for transportation services for yourself or a senior parent? At HomeAides, we have been providing high-quality in-home care and transportation services in Northwest Pennsylvania since 2012. We understand that choosing the right Home Care Agency is essential for your peace of mind. Contact the team at HomeAides today.