Question about transportation options for Mom...

[GA-yaya]

Hi Everyone!

Does anyone know if there is a way/or place to rent a wheelchair (powerchair) accessible van? I am interested in getting some information about doing this. My Mom is now needing to use her powerchair more and more, and I am concerned about transporting her to her ALS Dr. for her next appointment - he is 2 1/2 hours away. Since Mom only leaves the house to go to appointments, she doesn't want to buy an accessible vehicle due to $$, but she wanted to me look into the possibility of renting one as needed.

Any ideas?:idea:

 

[Al]

Some of the larger cities have taxi/transport services. Check the yellow pages.

AL.

 

[Tokahfang]

You can also search for local ambulette services, and check with your local bus company about specialized disability busses.

 

[LornaDoone]

We have them here, but they charge a boatload of money. About $150/day. Crazy really.

Others have given some great suggstions. The distance is quite far so that may limit the options. Let us know what you come up with locally.

 

[tgirl]

companies who convert vans for wheelchair accessiblity usually have a few to rent for the very purpose you are stating. There are several conversions available. It is best for the person to take their wheelchair with them to be evaluated by the company. They usually have new and used vans. Not every van can be modified. Also they measure for head room take measurements ect.i There is nothing like getting a van mod and your head doesn't fit. You need to be well educated on your options and think about the needs of the person it is for, and the caregiver. I know a lot about this subject if you have further questions. I am an RN who was a modification specialist with the Ohio Home Care waiver program, the state program provides van modifications if you qualify for this medicaid program. Hope this helps. maybe TMI, thanks, Tina

 

[brooksea]

The ALS Association or the MDA has a van loaner program (or they did last year). You have to go for "training" to use it. I believe they were allowing one day a month per patient. If I remember correctly, you had to go to Marietta to get it.

 

[jeffro]

Hey GA
look up wheelchairgetaways.com they rent handicap vans and are in your area.

 

[GA-yaya]

Thanks to everyone for the suggestions.

My Mom lives in Louisiana, so I am looking for transportation options available there...I will look into the suggestions that were made to see if any are available in Louisiana.

Thanks so much!

 

[GA-yaya]

Hey GA
look up wheelchairgetaways.com they rent handicap vans and are in your area.

Hi Jeffro,

Thanks for that website link...it was exactly what I was looking for. It is going to be $$$, but it's still a lot cheaper than buying a wheelchair accessible van - and it looks like they do work with some insurances to help with the rental fee.

I need to get Mom to Houston in early July for her 3-month checkup with her ALS specialist, and that was my main concern. The trips to her regular doctor/neurologist are easily handled by local wheelchair accessible transportation.