Senior Transportation in San Luis Obispo: Resources & Safety
Public transportation helps people across the country every single day, and ridership is only growing, according to recent data. For older adults, this is comforting news since aging can, unfortunately, mean challenges with driving may leave them without a means of transportation.
Since seniors need to get around town just like anyone else, San Luis Obispo County provides many options for senior transit depending on your age and if you have a disability or not. Solutions like buses, trolleys, ride shares, and trains are all made available by the county.
Keep reading to learn more about public transportation services in San Luis Obispo, CA, along with practical tips for navigating these systems safely.
Why Public Transportation Is Essential for Older Adults
Public transportation services are essential to community residents, helping them get to places for recreation, appointments, school, church, and more. For older folk, the benefits can greatly impact their well-being. For one, public transportation allows access to maintain healthcare, providing rides to places like doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and therapy appointments. Secondly, it offers an avenue to socialization, which is crucial to prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation. Additionally, using public transit can assist seniors with maintaining a sense of independence, since they can still get out and about without relying on friends or family to drive them.
Public Transportation for Older Adults in San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA, offers many public transportation options for older adults. For those who need specialized options for transportation due to disabilities, SLO County has a variety of programs that meet ADA regulations.
San Luis Obispo Transit offers fixed-route buses within the city of San Luis Obispo and California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). There is also a trolley that provides rides during specific times and seasons.
San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority (RTA) also offers fixed-route buses, but travels outside of city limits and throughout San Luis Obispo County and parts of Santa Barbara County.
Runabout Paratransit is a specialized program for those who are ADA certified due to their physical or cognitive condition.
Dial-A-Ride is a curb-to-curb service that qualified seniors can use within the community. Seniors must make reservations up to two or three days in advance. There is no fixed schedule or route for Dial-A-Ride, making it a more flexible option for travel.
Senior Go! is another curb-to-curb option in San Luis Obispo County that offers rides anywhere seniors need to go since it also does not operate on a fixed route or schedule. You do need to reserve a ride up to 2-3 days in advance by calling 805-473-3333.
There are additional options that can be used depending on your situation and need. For a full list of available services, take a look at the Specialized Transit Ride Guide.
Tips for Navigating Public Transportation Safely
Using public transportation can feel daunting if you haven’t done so before. But once you do it a few times, it will feel much more comfortable. However, there are some basic safety tips that you should always be mindful of when riding on public transportation.
Research your trip ahead of time. This will reduce the chances of any surprises along the way. Find out which mode of transit you’ll use, the schedule you are following, where your stop is, and the costs. If you can, have an alternative backup, either through the same means of transportation at a nearby time or stop, or an entirely different one. As with anything, it’s always good to have a second option in case of unexpected changes.
Be mindful of your personal items. There can be a lot of activity on public transit, so it’s important to be vigilant of your belongings to ensure nothing is left behind or susceptible to pickpocketing.
Use caution when boarding and getting off public transportation. Although it may sound like common sense, getting on and off public transit safely might not be what’s on your mind when doing so. Coming prepared and with ample time to board can give you room for physical awareness. Most public transportation in San Luis Obispo is wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps, as well as friendly drivers trained to assist disabled passengers with boarding and unboarding. However, use your judgment to be mindful of handrail placements, gaps, and any changes in elevation between walkways, platforms, and modes of transportation.
Travel Training from SLO County
With all these options, it’s understandable to find it a bit overwhelming. San Luis Obispo County offers travel training for anyone who needs to learn how to use transportation and the options available to them. You can call 805-776-8700 to find out more about this resource, or call 511 for information.
When Extra Assistance is Needed, Visiting Angels is Here
When you or a senior loved one needs an extra hand navigating daily tasks at home or around town, Visiting Angels of SLO County is available to help. Our in-home caregivers provide safe and reliable transportation for our clients to assist with running errands and attending appointments. Contact us today at (805) 546-2080 to learn how we can help you or your loved one maintain independence.
