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Resources for people unable to drive
In a recent column, I discussed the loss of Independence that comes with the inability to drive or perform other common tasks. A reader commented about transportation resources in the community for people in wheelchairs or otherwise unable to drive.
What is available where you live?
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2 Replies
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The state offers public transportation you can register for. The vehicles are able to transport wheelchairs or power chairs. The issue is scheduling/timeliness – meaning they’ll get you to an appointment on time but may need to pick you up extremely early… So, if you have an 8 AM appointment you may be picked up at 6 AM. The same is true for your ride home. The appointment maybe over by 10 AM but you won’t be picked up until. Also, since it’s public transportation riders are grouped. It may take you all day for a one hour appointment.
There was a company – Mobilityworks – that rents, leases and sells vehicles. (Vans) I did all of the above and finally purchased a used van. The vehicles are modified to facilitate people in wheelchair. They can also be configured so the person in the chair can drive . I don’t drive. There are different devices for driving and tiedown. Hope this helps some.
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I get most of my care through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Disabled American Veterans offers transport to VA appointments. It’s a great service, but like you said, you have to plan on taking the whole day for one appointment.
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