Senior Transport Discussion at 5/29 meeting « Thread Started on May 30, 2008, 9:02am »
Aileen B. started the senior service projects discussion by suggesting that we find RCC volunteers willing to help transport homebound seniors in our community to local events.
Renting a vehicle was discussed as well as individuals using their own cars. Without a fundraiser in place, it seems as though the latter would be feasible at this time.
Aileen will look into what is already in place in the community as well as resources to help identify homebound seniors (the senior center, churches, etc.)
Bus trips to casinos, museums and other destinations was also discussed but it was mentioned that similar services were already available.
Another spin on this was to pair "active" seniors up with seniors who need help getting around.
The idea of covering admission costs for the seniors to participate in events (if not free) was also briefly mentioned - of course, a fundraiser would need to be in place for that.
Re: Senior Transport Discussion at 5/29 meeting « Reply #1 on May 31, 2008, 11:41pm »
Thinking about the summer Gazebo concerts.... there is always at least one "Big Band" group or other type that would appeal to seniors. Perhaps to get our feet wet on this idea, we could offer rides to and from the concert.
There is no cost and its right in town. Of course, we should also help them get settled, carry their chair, etc. I'm sure that the police would allow us to pull up close while someone helps them in and out of the car, if necessary. I imagine many of us would go park the car and return to the concert as well - I like "Big Band" music....!
A modifcation to this post - I just checked the concert schedule - there is no "Big Band" scheduled but here is a link to the list http://www.westcaldwell.com/Images-Rec/80522_GAZEBO%20SCHEDULE%202008.pdf - I think that the Motown concert on 7/31 might be a possibility or perhaps the Italian concert on 7/10...?
Re: Senior Transport Discussion at 5/29 meeting « Reply #3 on Jun 21, 2008, 9:00am »
Doctors tell their senior patients to walk daily. Some seniors are frightened by children on bicycles riding on the sidewalks--coming up behind-them and startling them -since they do not walk in a straight line. One senior asked if Rotary could help by suggesting bells be placed on bike handlebars so children and adults can ring the bell--as an alert system to the unsuspecting senior.They are not critical of bikes on sidewalks. They would like to be aware of the approaching bike behind them. (I wondered if the Dollar Store could sell bike bells for $1.00. Or, if Rotary could sponsor the purchase of bike bells as a starter awareness program to aid seniors.) Comments are welcome. Jackie
Housebound seniors, especially during the winter or when confined to home for medical reasons, asked if a plan could be arranged with local libraries to have library books delivered to them at home --and possibly DVD movies. (I believe WCPL is doing this. They could be helpful by sharing their plan with Rotary.) Jackie