Considerations when Arranging Transportation

If you are a caregiver in search of transportation for an older family member or friend, you may want to consider the following questions before deciding on a transportation option. Use these questions to gather more detailed information from the transportation provider you are considering in order to choose the best option for your loved one.

1. What is the service area?
2. Is there a limitation on distance?
3. How much will the service cost?
4. Will insurance pay for rides provided by the service?
5. Are there requirements to qualify for the service? If so, what are they?
6. Is there an evaluation that must take place prior to the first ride?
7. Is there a membership fee that must be paid before scheduling rides with the service?
8. How far in advance must reservations be made?
9. Are rides provided in the evenings, on weekends or on holidays?
10. Are rides provided to social as well as medical or shopping appointments?
11. Are door-through-door, door-to-door or curb-to-curb services provided?
12. Are rides provided to people who use wheelchairs?
13. Do riders stay in their wheelchair, or are they transferred to a seat during the ride?
14. Is there an escort or attendant in the vehicle with the driver?
15. Does someone stay with my family member during appointments?
16. Can a family member serve as an escort? If so, is there an extra cost associated?
17. Will there be a wait when picked up from home? If so, how long?
18. Will there be a wait when picked up for the return trip? If so, how long?
19. Will the driver or attendant come into the office/building for the return trip?
20. Will other passengers be riding? If so, what is the maximum length of time of the ride while others are being picked-up/dropped-off?

Source: US Dept of Health and Human Services, Administration on Aging, www.AoA.gov