Getting healthcare shouldn’t be stressful for our aging loved ones, but it often is. Transportation problems, high costs, and age-unfriendly services are just a few of the challenges they face for senior healthcare access. This article will show you simple ways to tackle these barriers and help seniors get the care they need.
Transportation Struggles
Many seniors have trouble getting to medical appointments. They may not drive anymore, or they might live too far from a doctor’s office. These challenges can delay important care and hurt their health.
What You Can Do
- Use Senior Ride Programs
Look into ride programs offered by local senior centers. Many communities have shuttles for doctor visits. Reach out to your county government office on aging to find out what types of transportation services are provided to our aging adults. Often these charge the cost of a cab but can accommodate wheelchairs and handicap individuals. - Try Telehealth Visits
Virtual doctor visits are a great option. They save time and eliminate the need to leave home. These have become very efficient and popular to help our loved one’s age in place. - Explore Rideshare Services
Apps like Lyft and Uber often offer senior-friendly services. Some even partner with clinics for free rides. - Plan Ahead
Arrange weekly transportation schedules with family or friends. This makes it easier to organize rides. - Most continuum communities have a provider group come to them to provide residents with health care. These communities provide independent living, assisted living, therapy, and a nursing home level of care. It can be a great benefit to have the provider come to see an aging loved one vs. having to arrange transportation.
By improving transportation, seniors can reach their appointments and get care on time.
Financial Challenges
Even with Medicare, healthcare can be expensive for seniors. Copays, prescriptions, and treatments add up quickly. This can make it hard for them to afford the care they need.
Ways to Reduce Costs
- Apply for Assistance Programs
Help seniors check if they qualify for programs like Medicaid or NeedyMeds. These can lower healthcare costs. Once again check with your county agency on aging for resources and to provide an assessment on what services you may be qualified for. - Find Low-Cost Clinics
Look for clinics that base prices on income, like Federally Qualified Health Centers. Cash only clinics may be an option. Some independent Radiology clinics or laboratories may often have services at a much-reduced cost at the clinic or hospital. You must check your deductibles, co-pays, out of pocket, etc to see what would make the best sense. - Review Insurance Plans
Check their Medicare plan every year. Changes in coverage might save money. Tip: for those of you on a Medicare Advantage Plan if you encounter a chronic disease, you may not be eligible to change to a Medicare Supplement Plan during open enrollment. Your county office on aging has advisors that can help you look at what your healthcare needs are and help you to choose a correct plan. - Use Discount Resources
Websites like GoodRx can help with prescription savings. If you are Medicare Eligible you may also check on a program called Senior Care for prescriptions. Make sure to check your insurance formulary for covered medications and what tier they fall into so you have an idea what your costs would be.
Addressing financial barriers can ease stress and make care more affordable for older adults.
Age-Friendly Healthcare
Not all healthcare services are senior-friendly. Busy offices or buildings without ramps can make visits frustrating. Seniors also need doctors who understand aging and their unique needs. There is a national movement to accredit healthcare systems, hospitals, clinics, etc to be Age-Friendly. To learn more, see our resource section below. These credentials mean the system has met the standards of having “age friendly” processes in place considering the needs of our aging adults. On their website you can even search for “Age-Friendly” clinics and hospitals.
How to Improve Their Care
- Look for Age-Friendly Clinics
Some medical centers are designed for seniors with features like ramps and larger exam rooms. - Find Geriatric Specialists. Often doctors with these credentials are better equipped to manage aging loved ones with dementia as well as neurologists.
Older adults benefit from doctors trained to care for aging patients. - Hire a Geriatric Care Manager or Nurse Patient Advocate such as Your Nurse Advocate Consulting.
These professionals help seniors coordinate their care and advocate for their needs.
Choosing age-friendly services makes healthcare more comfortable and effective for seniors.
A Healthier Future for Our Seniors
Healthcare access for seniors doesn’t have to be so difficult. By solving transportation issues, reducing costs, and finding better healthcare options, we can make meaningful changes. It’s about ensuring our loved ones get care with ease and dignity.
Helping our seniors overcome these barriers shows them they matter and deserve the best care possible.
Additional Resources
- National Aging and Disability Transportation Center
- Medicare Assistance Programs
- Age-Friendly Health Systems
- GoodRx Prescription Savings
- Your Nurse Advocate Free Resources
- Your Nurse Advocate YouTube Channel
Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our aging loved ones.
Thank you for spending time with us this week. We’re so glad to be part of your journey in caring for your aging loved ones. It’s an honor to share resources, insights, and a little encouragement to support you along the way. We look forward to bringing you more helpful tools and compassionate guidance in the weeks ahead. See you back here soon!
With care,
Pam and Linda
Your Nurse Advocates
“Compassionate Care for Aging Adults Along With Peace of Mind for the Family”
About the Authors
At Your Nurse Advocate Consulting, Pam and Linda’s mission is to empower aging adults and their families to take control of their health, prepare for life’s uncertainties, and secure their peace of mind. We are dedicated to providing compassionate guidance, personalized support, and expert resources to help our clients navigate complex medical needs and organize their personal affairs.
As independent patient advocates we have a steadfast commitment to clarity, family well-being, and empowerment, we strive to make a meaningful impact by ensuring our clients feel confident, prepared, and cared for every step of the way on their healthcare journey.
Expert Guidance You Can Trust
With over 80 combined years of R.N. experience navigating the complex healthcare system, we stand as trusted guides for seniors and their families. Our expertise ensures they can access the care and resources they need without feeling overwhelmed by red tape or confusion.
