In North Idaho, limited transportation options hinder older adults’ access to health care and increase the risk of social isolation and poor health outcomes.1,2,3 To empower seniors with the transportation they need to live healthier lives, UnitedHealthcare has invested $35,000 to increase the capacity of the AAA of North Idaho’s self-directed transportation program. In just a few months, the program completed over 1,000 rides, empowering more seniors to meet their health needs and reduce isolation.
Helping seniors age in place
For Pam Ellis, who lives in Athol, Idaho, the program is essential for managing her health and caring for her husband, who has advanced dementia. “I don’t know how I could be doing this life without that service,” said Pam. “It’s just a real help. It’s a vital part of making the necessities of my life happen.”
Similarly, 90-year-old Frank from St. Maries relies on the program to stay active and connected to friends and family. After Frank’s mobility and hearing caused him to step away from driving, Frank’s roommate and advocate, Pat, began driving Frank to doctor’s appointments. Now, Pat began using the program to drive Frank to medical appointments and social activities. “I believe the fact that Frank can get out and go out and go places helps to keep him going,” Pat said. “It gives him a positive outlook.”
Self-direction promotes independence
Self-direction is a model that helps people maintain independence by deciding how, when, and from whom their services and supports are delivered.4 The AAA of North Idaho offers programs that support independence and quality of life for adults ages 60 and older, people living with a disability, and eligible family caregivers who need additional support. The agency serves Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, and Shoshone counties with innovative self-direction programs for homebound seniors.
The AAA of North Idaho’s self-directed transportation program offers $1200 annually per person to manage their transportation needs in the way that works best for each individual. Participants can use the funds for drivers to not only provide transportation, but also for help getting ready for an appointment, getting in and out of the car, or unloading groceries. In contrast, programs that offer vouchers for public transportation or ride-share services often fall short for seniors with mobility or cognitive conditions, and for those in rural communities. The flexibility of self-directed transportation supports both medical needs and quality of life: participants can use the funds to attend medical appointments, run errands, and enjoy activities like going to places of worship or visiting family.
From July 2024 to February 2025, the program has provided over 1,000 rides to people in some of the most rural areas of North Idaho, representing 10,000 miles of transportation and 860 hours of travel time and assistance. These statistics demonstrate the high demand for the program and the significant gap it fills in helping older adults maintain their independence. UnitedHealthcare’s investment will help more people in North Idaho access the transportation they need to access health care and reduce social isolation
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