Aging in place is something that many aging people would like to do. This is your home, these are your belongings, this is where you want to be. If you were in another place, it just wouldn’t feel right. However, what happens when you aren’t as mobile but still need to get where you need to go? This is one of the biggest things that not only those aging in place have to ask themselves, but those children of parents that are aging in place. Here are some ideal ways to help your parents, or yourself, get around the home and city while aging in place.
Ask a Friend or Relative
Asking someone you know to bring you around might be embarrassing for some. However, there is really no need to be embarrassed and in some cases, it’s the safest choice to make. Physical changes such as vision, hearing, ability to concentrate, as well as medications that can cause drowsiness, or any conditions that compromise reaction time are all things to be considered when evaluating driver safety.
It’s important to acknowledge when it’s time to turn over your keys. Are you feeling anxious on the road? Is your reaction time slower than it used to be? Have family members approached you with concerns about your driving? These are questions you must ask yourself. Your safety and the safety of others on the road is not worth taking the risk, just to run to the store to grab bread and milk. Asking for help does not mean you’re weak; it just means you need a ride to get from point A to point B, and this is being responsible. Friends and family would love to help you out. Make it an opportunity to visit someone you care about. When in doubt, ask someone to help you out!
Take Public Transit
For some, public transit is usually not the preferred method of transportation, but so many people do it. When you’re riding together on a bus, train or taxi; then you can save on gas and also on pollution. It is a small fee, but if you choose to get a bus pass, then you will find that it is cheaper over the long run if you use it quite a bit.
There are other options for ride sharing, besides public transportation. Many times, the place that you live, or the community has programs that help senior citizens. Some services will do the grocery shopping for you and bring it right to your door. Others services may provide transit to bring those in need to where they have to go. There are always options in your community, but you just have to ask around to find them.
Devices for Mobility
While it may be uncomfortable or difficult to become accustomed to them, mobility devices can be helpful to those that want to age in place. There are numerous devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes and braces that can make the transition from limited mobility to full mobility with ease. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine which devices might be of the most use to you.
Whatever you decide to do, know that there are plenty of ways for you to get around. Whether you’re trying to move from room to room inside your home, or you’re just trying to get to the grocery store; the community that you live in can help you with everything from devices to transport as needed. There are many ways to age in place, you just have to take advantage of the options.