COMMUNITY
Transport options Having free, inexpensive or subsidised transport options available is important in maintaining your independence, remaining socially active and reducing social isolation as you age.
T
hinking ahead and being aware of these options can give you peace of mind when deciding how to get to the shops, a social event or your next medical appointment. If you are still able to drive a car, there are also many things to consider to ensure the safety of you and others on the road.
Driving Having the ability to drive a car is an important component for many people in keeping their independence. However, as you get older there are special licencing requirements, which may involve annual medical check-ups, completing driving assessments or renewing your licence more frequently. These often vary depending on what State or Territory you live in. Contact the transport department in your State or Territory to find out what rules apply. As you age you may experience vision changes, impairments in your decision making skills and slower reaction times which can put others in danger on the road. If you experience symptoms that can affect your driving ability or no longer feel safe or comfortable operating a motor vehicle, have a chat to your doctor and family to decide whether its time to surrender your licence. If you are still able to drive but have a disability or a mobility impairment and require a mobility aid such as a
walking frame, crutches, scooter or wheelchair, you may be eligible for a disability parking permit. Disability parking is often closest to the entrance and exit of buildings, making it easier to get around. You must display your permit on the rear vision mirror of your car if you park in a disability parking space. There may be a small fee involved in obtaining an Australian Disability Parking Permit and you must be assessed by your doctor or specialist to prove you require a permit. Each State and Territory may have different eligibility criteria around permit parking so it is important to check the rules that apply based on where you live.
Public Transport Getting from one place to another on public transport is a common choice for older people. Most public transport services, including buses, trains, trams and ferries are accessible for people with limited mobility. Low floors and ramps allow easy, safe entry and exit of vehicles. There are also allocated spaces for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The Australian Government issues the Pensioner Concession Card to eligible Australians over 60 which offers a range of benefits including subsidised public transport fees. Some States and Territories even offer pensioners free travel at certain times.
Alternative transport options While transport can be provided through Government funded support, there are transport options available through local councils, community transport providers and private businesses if you are unable to drive or access public transport. Local
councils and community groups
Many councils and community organisations provide a variety of transport options such as: ● Shopping transport, which may offer a group bus service that allows you and others to do your weekly shopping; ● Social transport, which provides transport for groups to attend social events or activities such as going to the movies or sightseeing; ● Personal transport, which offers individual transport to the hospital, medical appointments or personal social visits to family and friends. Throughout Australia, there is a wide range of not-for-profit, charity, religious, cultural and
There are transport options available through local councils, community transport providers and private businesses if you are unable to drive or access public transport AgedCareGuide.com.au/home-care
31