Transportation

Without transportation, older adults lose their independence and are denied access to basic living services such as getting to medical appointments, buying groceries, or accessing social services. As more and more people no longer live close to extended family, the need for transportation services is increasing. And, even when their family does live near, family members are often at work during the times when they need to get to their appointments or activities.

Studies have shown that more than one in five (21%) Americans age 65 and older do not drive. Reasons include declining health, eyesight, physical or mental abilities; concern over safety; no car or no access to a car; or personal preference. [Source: Bailey, L. (2004, April). Aging Americans: Stranded Without Options. Surface Transportation Policy Project. Read the full report here.]

For many, public transportation is not a suitable answer. In many areas of Wake County, public transportation is not consistently available, and even where it is available, it often is too difficult for elders to withstand or maneuver.

Responsibilities

Volunteers generally provide a round-trip service to and from home. Sometimes, though, one volunteer will drop the care receiver off and another volunteer will pick them up. Volunteers are generally assigned on an event-by-event basis. If needed, a volunteer will accompany the care receiver into the doctor's office or store.  A care receiver must be able to get in and out of a car on their own.  Volunteers cannot do transfers to or from wheelchairs.