Transportation Options for Seniors: Finding Rides, Friday May 31

Being unable to drive is often seen as a loss of independence, but that's not necessarily the case. And it definitely should not prevent anyone from having an active and social lifestyle. In fact, not having a car may make such a lifestyle more affordable! There are many affordable transportation options available to local residents.

Car insurance, gas, and maintenance costs are a few thousand dollars each year. Those funds can be used to pay for individual rides to and from medical appointments, church, grocery shopping, library visits and much more. The Wheeling Township Transportation Department offers a bus service for seniors and permanently disabled township residents. This door-to-door service is a great way to get around town - or anywhere throughout the township, actually. Rides must be scheduled at least two days in advance and cost $2 each way.

Escorted Transportation Services Northwest is a volunteer organization that makes sure seniors are able to get to their medical appointments. Volunteers use their own cars to drive folks to their appointment, wait for the appointment to be over and then drive them home again. Rides must be scheduled at least one week in advance and there is a $12 donation to support the organization.

There are plenty of other transportation options available, but Wheeling Township and Escorted Transportation Services will be at the Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 N. Elm St., on Friday, May 31, 1-2:30 p.m., to talk about their programs. Please reserve your seat by calling the Library at 847-259-3500.