What are the risks associated with senior driving in Medford?
If you decide to tempt fate and allow your senior to continue driving long into their twilight years, you might experience tragic consequences. In fact, recent data shows that seniors have a high chance of getting into fatal accidents as early as age 65. Almost 35% of all seniors in Oregon’s fatal accidents were between the ages of 65 and 69.
This data suggests that the sooner caregivers organize rides for seniors in Oregon, the better. Even though your senior might seem sharp and fit immediately after retirement, the statistics don’t lie. Once you put these support systems into place, you won’t have to worry about your senior driving as they continue to experience cognitive and physical decline.
How are older adults like seniors in Medford getting around?
According to recent statistics, the vast majority of seniors in Medford have come to the conclusion that public transportation just isn’t a viable option — with only about 15% of the elderly population using it to any notable degree. But perhaps the most worrying statistic is that over 80% of seniors are still driving their own vehicles long into their twilight years.
Older adults who report using public transportation
Older adults who report still driving
Older adults who report riding with family or friends
On one hand, these statistics are understandable. After all, public transit isn’t always reliable in places like Medford or Klamath Falls, and seniors might have to walk miles just to find the nearest bus stop. On the other hand, however, this data shows the clear need for reliable senior transportation in Medford — especially when you consider the prevalence of fatal car accidents among the elderly population.
Medford senior transportation for aging in place
But finding senior transportation in Medford isn’t just about avoiding fatal car accidents. This also forms a key aspect of your overall aging-in-place plan, as it helps avoid a range of issues commonly associated with this care option. For starters, access to transportation gives your senior plenty of opportunities to visit the local grocery store and shop for nutritious foods — improving their quality of life and long-term health outlook.
Secondly, seniors who have access to reliable transportation can visit their doctor more frequently — potentially identifying health conditions sooner and receiving treatment faster. Without transportation options, aging in place can also lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and boredom for seniors. The good news is that it’s never been easier to find local transportation options in your neighborhood. If you’d like to learn more about this general process, check out our comprehensive guide to choosing senior transportation.
Senior rides in Medford
Caregiving is a time-consuming and often-exhausting endeavor. This is why it’s important to make your life convenient and take advantage of all the resources that might be available to you. Senior transportation is a clear example of this, and it can save you many hours each week. Cross one more item off your list as you plan your senior’s future, and check out Seasons today to browse local options for senior transportation.
