Travel options for senior citizens who can’t get behind the wheel
For baby boomers inching toward their golden years, we want to make sure you know all of the transportation options available for you or your loved one. For us, it's all about making Idaho a better place to live.
As the air is getting cooler, senior citizens should further weigh in on various transportation options, and they should find one that works best for them, especially if they can't drive at all.
"There’s medical appointments or any errands they need to run, like grocery stores, or the bank," said Heather Wheeler, CTAI Executive Director.
The easiest way to get around would be the taxi, but that can be pricy. According to the Community Transportation Association, more affordable options differ in each city, and senior centers provide their own services.
In Boise, Valley Ride has an access line for senior citizens and disabled individuals. However, they must be qualified.
“Let’s just say you're the care provider for your mom, you would help your mom fill out her part, then go to medical provider to get their part filled out,” said Larry Pew, Valley Ride Operations Supervisor.
Once a person finishes the process and is qualified, they must call 24 hours in advanced. It costs $2 one way and $4 round trip.
In rural areas, your best bet is the Treasure Valley Transit Service, which has a fixed loop service for only 50 cents. “We will deviate from our fixed route,” said Jade Warren, Treasure Valley Assistant Director, “accommodate any seniors with disabilities, especially in winter months when it’s cold and icy outside.”
Valley Ride also has a demand response service in 8 rural counties, plus also in Ada and Canyon Counties, where people can call to have someone pick them up at their home and take them wherever they need to go. The service costs more at around $5 to $10.
Many senior citizens, who don't get behind the wheel, said they have embraced their new lifestyle with these options.
Treasure Valley Transit is working with Valley Ride to coordinate more senior transportation options from the rural community into the city.
To find all of the transportation services in your area, go to i-way.org, and find ‘getting around Idaho’. Then, click on the ‘transportation directory’. Select which city you live in and put a check on ‘senior’ to view all of your choices.










This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.