A senior’s ability to operate a vehicle may be affected by a loss of vision or hearing, by delays in their reaction time, or physical limitations caused by arthritis or other conditions. Fortunately, transportation options have changed greatly over the years, even in areas where public transportation isn’t readily accessible. Specifically, ridesharing services are becoming an excellent alternative for seniors who wish to remain independent but no longer feel safe on the road. 

Many people are familiar with Uber and Lyft, the two most popular ridesharing services across the country. Services like these are accessible through a smartphone app, making them easier to arrange than a traditional taxi service. For senior citizens who aren’t tech savvy and may not have a smartphone, both Uber and Lyft have connections to third-party vendors that make it easier for seniors to arrange a rideshare. These vendors often partner with senior centers and facilities that work with the elderly to provide access to transportation. They also act as a bridge between seniors and rideshare services by making arrangements over the phone instead of through an app.

Aside from Uber and Lyft, there are other rideshare services that are geared towards meeting the needs of the elderly. Services like Go Go Grandparent, Arrive, Envoy, and Drive a Senior can be arranged without the need for a smartphone app. They also offer additional features such as mobility assistance and companionship. As a bonus, some of these services for seniors are free or offered at a reduced cost. 

Ridesharing services are very aware of the growing senior population and are working towards making sure that they’re ready and able to meet the specific needs of the elderly. Their goal is to make life easier for their customers, whether it’s a senior citizen needing a ride to a doctor’s appointment or a family member who is too busy or too far away to take them. Helping seniors get around for medical appointments, errands, or social activities allows them to maintain their independence and gives their loved ones some peace of mind.

Here at Lewis Kannegieter Law, Ltd., we not only help families develop estate and elder law plans, but we guide our clients toward “out of the box” solutions to make life easier during the healthcare and long-term care challenges that they face. Whether it’s suggestions for transportation, respite care, or referrals to assisted living communities or local advisors, we are happy to help guide your family through all of life’s transitions. If you’d like to schedule a call to get started, contact our Monticello law firm at (763) 244-2949.

Depending on the laws in your state, the health care form you execute could include all three types of health care directives, or you may do each individually. Minnesota utilizes a Health Care Directive that combines the functions of the living will and the health care power of attorney.

If you are 18 or over, it’s time to establish your health care directives. Although no one thinks they will be in a medical situation requiring a directive at such a young age, it happens every day in the United States. People of all ages are involved in tragic accidents that could not be foreseen which result in life support being used. If you plan in advance, you can make sure you receive the type of medical care you wish, and you can avoid a lot of heartache for your family, who may be forced to guess what you would want done.

Many people do not want to execute health care directives because of some common misconceptions about them. People are often frightened to name someone to make health care decisions for them, because they fear they will give up the right to make decisions for themselves. However, an individual always has the right, if he or she is competent, to revoke the directive or make his or her own decisions.  Some also fear they will not be treated if they have a health care directive. This is also a common myth – the directive simply informs caregivers of the person you designate to make health care decisions and the type of treatment you’d like to receive in various situations.  Planning ahead can ensure that your treatment preferences are carried out while providing some peace of mind to your loved ones who are in a position to direct them.

To learn more about the importance of Health Care Directives request a FREE copy of my book: Why Every Adult Must Have a Health Care Directive.