NEED A LIFT??

On Friday, March 1, Park Ridge Club members learned of ITN North Jersey, an affiliate of the first and only national non-profit senior transportation network. Started in Portland, Maine about 20 years ago, ITN now has 28 affiliates.

Transportation is the common denominator that determines whether an elderly person can remain independent, age in place, maintain their physical and mental health, and have quality of life. It also places a significant burden on the health care system, families, friends, caregivers and employers. The population of those over 60 in New Jersey is now approaching 1.5 million. Of those, about 220,000 live in Bergen County.

ITNAmerica provides thousands of rides daily to seniors and the visually impaired nationwide.

Designed to replicate the freedom and flexibility of private car ownership, ITNNorthJersey plans to use the same proven, prescribed, volunteer-based model now working effectively in affiliates throughout the nation. Their mission is to provide private, safe, affordable, arm-through-arm, door-through-door transportation at any time, day or night, throughout the year. More cost effective than car ownership, ITN North Jersey is determined to keep seniors and communities safe.

Once in place, a person over 65 or one who is visually impaired can register for a nominal annual fee and a per mile charge. Through this program, local employers see less lost work time from adult family members and caregivers, seniors are better able to manage their health care appointments, and local transit programs are complemented without draining taxpayer dollars. 

To learn more about this vitally important program visit their website at http://itnnorthjersey.org or see The Road Warrior's column at http://www.northjersey.com/news/170874361_Service_will_give_ride_to__seniors_who__don_t_drive.html?page=all