Social connections and new relationships formed during leisure travels can potentially improve cognitive and mental health for seniors, according to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Given these benefits, it’s essential to ensure these trips are safe and accessible. In the senior living industry, proper safety measures and equipment to accommodate passengers who use wheelchairs are a must.
Securing the ideal 10 passenger van is only a starting point. In addition to needing specialized vehicles for the job, the drivers and healthcare providers must be informed about the safest ways to board seniors.
Here are some best practices for loading and unloading passengers who use wheelchairs for day trips.
1. Be Mindful of the Lift When Parking the Vehicle
The 10-passenger van with a wheelchair lift must be parked on level ground with ample space for the wheelchair passengers and their luggage to maneuver themselves to work properly.
Each driver must know how to position the vehicle to provide optimal safety, be aware of traffic patterns and note how much space the lift has to move.
2. Go Over Pre-boarding Procedures
Before boarding a wheelchair passenger, the driver needs to conduct pre-boarding checks. This process includes verifying that the wheelchair is in good condition and that the wheel locks are fully functional.Â
Should the wheelchair fail to meet the standard vehicle features for safety, it must be repaired before the passenger can board. If your driver needs a refresher, check out our wheelchair training videos for drivers!
For added safety and peace of mind, check the vehicle’s driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning devices.Â
Regular maintenance prevents mechanical failures and ensures that the 10 passenger van or minivan is always ready to transport seniors safely.
3. Board in Teams of Two
For the passenger’s best loading and unloading experience, this process should include two individuals rather than one — the driver and a helper.Â
While the helper guides the passenger onto the lift, the driver is responsible for operating it and ensuring the individual is properly secured to the vehicle.Â
This method is the safest way to help a wheelchair passenger board, as it lessens the risk involved by having two parties watch for dangers.
Additionally, it keeps every person accounted for. Keeping track of every attendee in a group traveling experience can be challenging. When boarding in teams of two, the group uses the buddy system to ensure their partner gets on the bus.
4. Secure Wheelchair with Restraints
Once the passenger is positioned inside the 10 passenger van, wheelchair restraints must be used according to the manufacturer’s requirements. Securement systems work in two critical ways.Â
The floor anchors will keep the chair stationary and secure, and the lap/shoulder belts attached to the interior wall will keep the passenger in the chair. It is like a seat in your car; the seat must be attached to the vehicle at its base, and the passenger must be belted into place to keep them secure.
At Schetky Bus and Van Sales, we don’t just set out to supply you with 10 passenger vans for sale. We aim to provide the right vehicles for your needs, including MPVs (Multipurpose Vehicles) with manual or automatic transmissions.Â
Our stock contains various van configurations and conversions with wheelchair entries for you to choose from. This way, we can best serve you, and you can best serve your passengers.
5. Monitor Weather and Road Conditions
Always check the weather and road conditions before traveling with seniors. Adverse weather can affect lift operations and the stability of wheelchairs during boarding and travel.Â
Adjust travel plans to avoid risky conditions, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for all passengers.
Mobility for Older People
Aging should not slow down the seniors in your facility. Rain or shine, there are plenty of activities to keep them physically and mentally active.Â
Day trips are a great way to break up a routine and participate in fun, fulfilling activities.Â
Schetky offers various senior living vans that are comfortable, accessible and safe. Our Sunset Van Minibus, Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit 10 passenger van, which can include an all-wheel drive (AWD) option, offer transportation for assisted living, independent living and everything in between!
A new favorite activity might be right around the corner. Here are a few simple ideas to get senior citizens out on the town again!
1. Museums and Nearby Parks
According to the American Heart Foundation, spending time in nature increases a person’s overall mood, reduces stress and promotes a more positive lifestyle.
For a unique experience, consider alternating trips between museums, art galleries and nearby parks or nature preserves.Â
Museums offer a sheltered, enriching environment ideal for days when the weather might be less predictable, providing gentle mental and physical stimulation.Â
On nice days, a local park or national preserve trip allows seniors to enjoy the outdoors, benefiting from fresh air and natural scenery.Â
These locations offer a variety of activities, from leisurely walks and picnics to bird watching, making each outing adaptable to different mobility levels and interests.
A 10 passenger luxury van can help transport older adults comfortably.
2. Local Community Center
Community centers offer an array of activities, such as art classes, yoga classes and crafting activities. Depending on what your group is interested in, this can be an excellent way to interest seniors in a new hobby.
Many community centers also organize regular events, such as art fairs or crafting demos, which allow locals to socialize with others who share their interests.Â
For residents of senior living facilities, this is the best time to get to know someone outside of their usual crowd.Â
Community centers provide a nearby location for senior citizens to gather and engage in various activities or provide a space to host private events.Â
Hosting a book club or enjoying live music in a private space would benefit seniors. Some people may also enjoy participating in community service activities offered through the local community center.
3. Restaurant Tastings
For your foodie seniors, there’s nothing more fun than sitting down at the best restaurants and getting the opportunity to expand their palate.Â
A tasting trip is a great way to try new things and broaden their culinary horizons without overindulging.Â
Additionally, if you research beforehand, you can find eateries that provide a senior discount for your group.
Plus, a restaurant with a patio or outdoor seating is the perfect way for older people to get a breath of fresh air while also enjoying a unique culinary experience.Â
Restaurants are a unique, fun way for seniors to experience outings in a group setting. Senior citizens must participate in social activities to connect and create meaningful connections.
Are there any 10-passenger van license requirements for drivers?
Driving a 10 passenger van does not require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in all states, including California (CA). However, always confirm with local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations, as some states may require specific endorsements or additional training for these particular vehicle types.Â
Provide Seniors a Good Time with Schetky’s 10 Passenger Transit Vans for Sale
There’s only one essential part of every senior day trip, other than the seniors themselves — transportation! You must have the tools to safely transport them to your destination to maximize your day trip and show your seniors a good time during their next outing.
Schetky Bus and Van Sales offers quality vans with different roof heights catering to senior passengers’ needs. We offer hassle-free delivery service across the United States of America (USA) that includes tax, title and licensing on your behalf.
The 10 passenger van interior seating is comfortable and durable and can be configured with all fold-away seating.
Check out our inventory, which includes different 10 passenger conversion vans with wheelchair accessibility and configurations to help you better serve your clients.