The wheels on the bus....

Today’s my birthday and another year just passed by. Makes me think about aging, and getting around. And, it makes my trip this week even more meaningful.

Going into this week’s agency I really did not know what Medical Motor Service did.
I’ve noticed their cars and buses around town, but really wasn’t sure what it was all about. I was surprised to learn about all the different services that they offer.

Medical Motor Service plays a vital role within the Rochester community. It is the only agency whose sole purpose is to transport seniors and people with disabilities. I never had any idea that transportation is so expensive and for some, especially seniors who can no longer drive, or don’t have the money to afford transportation. To use the services, there is a $2 donation compared to a $100 charge.

There are 12 senior centers that the County funds for Medical Motors to provide transportation for seniors. The centers have weekly shopping trips to grocery stores, and even the mall. This service also provides transportation to doctor appointments, dialysis, and is available to go to family functions and church. The picture above is of 4 members that use Medical Motor Service to go to the Senior Center.

So, that’s the skinny on what they do. Here’s what I got a glimpse of.

The center I visited was the Irondequoit Senior Center on Pinegrove Avenue. The Irondequoit Senior Center has a beautiful facility with a library, recreation center with pool tables, wheelchair and walker rentals and of course the bingo hall where they also hold daily lunches. This service is so important to the seniors that use it. It is a way to get out into their community and meet up with their friends to play bingo and have lunch (for only a $1.25!).

The whole time I was visiting the facility, I thought of all the people that I would recommend this service to.

My dad had problems with his foot - that put him in a boot up to his knee - and he was unable to get to his doctor appointments without the help of my mom. This service would have come in handy. I also thought of my fiancés grandparents who live in Irondequoit, and who don’t get out too often unless it is for a doctors appointment or a family function. His grandfather cannot see very well and his grandmother acts as his eyes because she doesn’t drive. In addition to the transportation services, they could also benefit from getting out of the house and socializing with other people.

The bottom line for me is – it’s so good to know that someday when I’m old and gray I’ll have a tremendous service, like this, to rely upon.