GRAND RAPIDS — Meeting friends and family for dinner, attending a church service, watching a grandchild perform in the school play — all activities you might do in the evening on a typical day.
But for some people, access to transportation is limited, particularly at night, when already-thin public transportation options cease operation for the night. This is especially true in rural areas and for those over the age of 65.
"This will really benefit and enhance the quality of life for our older adults and increase their independence. They won't have to rely on somebody like a neighbor or family."Renee Bymark, Eldercircle
As seniors age, they may find it increasingly challenging to drive or may have limited access to public transportation. This can limit their ability to run errands, attend appointments and participate in social activities, leading to isolation and a decreased sense of well-being.
Social Movability offers accessible and affordable rural rides to social and community engagements after hours. Lisa Arnold of Itasca County Health and Human Services and Renee Bymark of Eldercircle shared more about the program on a recent segment on KAXE Morning Show.
Created through focus groups, the program is grant funded by the Minnesota Department of Human Services and provides rides with professional drivers on a sliding income scale.
"This will really benefit and enhance the quality of life for our older adults and increase their independence. They won't have to rely on somebody like a neighbor or family,” Bymark said. “And it'll decrease their social isolation and they'll be able to have that opportunity.”
The transportation is wheelchair-accessible, meaning it will reach those most vulnerable to limited transportation options. The opportunity to use the rides extends to those within a 20-mile radius of Grand Rapids.
“If you live 8 miles out of town, there are really no other options,” Arnold said. “Especially for a person in a wheelchair, there (typically) are no options to get a taxi service that's wheelchair accessible.”
For more information on the Social Movability program, contact Eldercircle at 218-999-9233.
