[USER]

I have vision problems that are not correctable; I am no longer comfortable driving even in the daytime I think I am still legally able to drive though.

I do see two eye specialists on a regular basis. They will let me know if/when I’m definitely not legal to drive, but I’m not waiting for that.

I am trying to find ways to go to the places I need to go. I am retired (I’m 64) so I don’t have to worry about work transportation. I have Walmart Plus so I can get food that way; I know I can add Instacart if needed. I’m getting together a list of friends who can take me to doctor’s appointments.

Sometimes though I just need to get out for fun. I’m single, never married, no children. So I don’t have family for help with that. My nearest relatives are 4 hours away. Uber and Lyft and taxies are extremely expensive. Public transportation is not very good here. The nearest bus stop is several miles away and buses are the only public transportation here. Hiring drivers off Craigslist seems a bit sketchy.

Is there an option that I’m not thinking of? Is there a way to get discounts from Uber/Lyft? I am not considered disabled, if that matters. Thank you.

[Cindy]

I live in a 55+ community with a small bus that goes to a different shopping center 3 days each week and then also to different local events several nights each month. You might consider changing your living arrangements to make sure you have what you need.

[Jeanette]

You should have a county agency on aging which can hook you up with a variety of services. In my county there’s a ride service called the LIFT, which takes people to medical appointments and such for free or cheap. They also sponsor senior centers, which offer activities and even meals.

I don’t know if the county agencies on aging are universal, but a quick Google should give you the information.

It sounds like you might eventually also qualify for services for the blind even though you will not be totally blind.

[Jo Vaughn]

If you are blind or low vision you probably qualify dual eligible for Medicaid and Medicare? And if you are Medicaid can provide transportation for you if you schedule well in advance. Talk with a social worker at a senior center.

Ever wondered why those with blindness or low vision get more $ in ssi or Medicaid? And certainly, more deductions on taxes at any age? Well, the “ association for the blind” advocated for their condition more with the government and the IRS, more clout!

So, you should be able to get help for living than any other disability for real. Check it out. Get knowledge about services either thru your states vocation rehabilitation service or your states institute for deaf and blind. You’ve not been informed well so get it.

[Carolina]

Maybe just start saving money for Uber and Lyft. Sounds like you are asking for suggestions for having a social life not for medical and grocery trips. Or like someone suggested, move to where you can go out by walking.

[Jamie]

Is there a senior center in your area, they may have contacts of people who can run you on errands or drop you off and pick you up different places. Or try posting on local facebook groups.

I don’t drive and bus service has been cut in my area, I posted on a neighborhood group looking for carpool home from work and have met a really nice lady who I now ride with one day a week.

[Quinn]

Much of what I will suggest is based solely on what my area offers but you just have to check your hometown. Please do not assume that bc you haven’t seen/heard about services that they don’t exist.

Depending on where you live, either in the county or within the city limits, you may be able to get “para-transit.” My neighborhood is annexed into the city limits even though I am 3+ miles from the closest bus stop. I know you may not be disabled but if you talk to your Dr and explain your concern about driving, the Dr COULD sign off on the para transit application classifying you as visually impaired. Paratransit where a smaller city bus (handicap accessible) will come directly to your home and take you to Dr appts, to certain stores, etc. It still requires a typical bus fare and the amount of shopping bags are limited due to space. This may not be available in your area and no Dr will falsely paperwork so this may be something available to you as vision worsens.

Another option available may be medical transport through your heath insurance. I am disabled in my 50s and have Medicare Advantage plan through United Healthcare with a special needs policy for either diabetes or heart issues. I am allowed per year, 16 one way transports to medical appts (up to 50mi).

I also suggest contacting you local large churches as they often have various ministries or even just members that are willing to help folks in the community. I suggest simply calling the church office to inquire and even ask if the church would be willing to mention the need for volunteers during the announcement time at Sunday service or maybe send out an email to the congregation.

If you’d be willing to just pm me a general city/state, I’d be happy to do some research for you. This is the kind of stuff I like to do. My dream job would’ve been being a “resource coordinator” or something similar.

[Darla]

Anonymous, one of my dearest friends has lost most vision in both eyes at different times for different reasons. So, I’m going to give you suggestions that we have discussed, which include some lifestyle modifications.

We have spent many hours on the phone (he’s in a different state) discussing his options long term.

He is almost 57 and his children are 2-4 hours away and he lives alone.

Reach out to your state and county resources even though you are considered disabled.

Agencies for the blind will help you with some transportation. In my friend’s area, there is a transport van that will take him to doctor’s appointments. He just needs to schedule that in advance. There is no charge.

Going forward, will your vision degrade further?

If so, consider relocating, now, to a residence where you have access to transportation or within walking distance of places you frequent. Better to learn the layout while you have some sight.

My friend can walk up to 2 miles at a time in his neighborhood but sounds do startle him. He’s come a long way in 11 months!

Currently, he relies on his friends for shopping and doctor’s appointments, etc.

His home is equipped with technology.

Alexa can answer many questions he has.

He has many tech and utility items controlled through his phone or voice commands.

His tv and computer are equipped for “accessibility “ that meets his needs.

All of his belongings have been greatly reduced so he can find what he needs when he needs it.

You definitely can utilize state and county agencies to help better prepare you in your home. Your eye doctors should be able to provide you with more information. You may qualify for home modification, labeling in braille, home organization, etc. there are many good resources that can be utilized.

In addition, my friend filed for disability and he got it in the first application.

I know this is more information than you might need, but I do understand how your lifestyle is impacted.

If I can be of further help to you, I will try!

[Molly]

Depending on your area, there may be medical transport options. Many towns offer that free to the elderly, handicapped and anyone else that generally needs the assistance. I haven’t personally used it, but sounds like you may qualify for it.

Also talk to your friends, if you’re doing an activity they also enjoy, they may be willing to pick you up. Maybe add on fun experiences before/after the Dr. appointments so it’s not an extra trip for them.

[Laura]

A local church might be able to connect you with someone to help meet your needs. Or Former coworkers might have kids or grandkids in the area who would be able to help. College students? Is there a local college nearby?

There might be a career center that posts or has a job board for student to earn small part time jobs.

[Author]

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