A number of seniors use power wheelchairs as their primary means for moving about within their homes and for getting to the various places they need to go. Some, for various reasons, may have no other form of personal transportation.
- They may not own or have access to a car
- They may be unable to drive
- They may have no one available to drive them
- They may have difficulty accessing a car seat unassisted
These and other challenges to senior mobility have led many older adults to rely on mass transit as a way to fulfill their daily routines — such as keeping doctor's appointments, shopping, or visiting with family and friends. Thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), public transportation is now more accessible for seniors and persons with disabilities than ever before.
Senior Mobility Gets a Lift from the ADA
Part of ADA law requires that public transportation stations, buses, subways and commuter rails be designed for accessibility by disabled individuals and seniors with mobility problems. Transit systems now have wheelchair ramps, lifts, priority seating, accessible doors, wider aisles and other adaptive features that make buses and trains easier to use.
Title Two of ADA law also requires modifications to ease accessibility for individuals with mobility aids. Personal equipment for mobility assistance will range from wheelchairs, crutches, walkers and guide dogs, to power chairs, power scooters and more.1
Renewing Independence in Style
Power chair accessible public transportation, combined with an understanding of mass transit's requirements for personal mobility equipment, helps seniors and others who need a scooter, power wheelchair, or similar device to independently accomplish activities which are central to their lives.
Hoveround makes it easy to get around in comfort and style.
Whether your mobility solution is a compact mobility scooter, or a custom power wheelchair, count on Hoveround to meet your needs. Contact a Hoveround Mobility Specialist today at 800-542-7236 to learn more about how we can help keep you moving.
This article is for general information purposes only.
1Please contact local transit officials for additional information regarding specific restrictions and requirements for allowable mobility equipment.