We have homes with steps and on a hill. Our homes are beautiful, but when you are confined to a wheelchair or non-ambulatory steps, curbs, hills, and weather can be an obstacle to going out. Seniors and those with short or long-term disabilities can find it challenging to vote as they are unable to secure support, transportation, or a caregiver. It is now time to vote early or at your designated polling locations, and seniors and those with challenges need our help to perform their rightful duty to vote. As the voting season rolls around once again, millions of Americans prepare to exercise their right to vote. For most, casting a ballot is a straightforward process. Early voting options, mail-in ballots, or simply driving to the nearest polling station are convenient and accessible for many. Still, our seniors and others may not find this time of year easy. However, for some seniors and individuals with disabilities, voting can present significant challenges despite the systems in place. Further, seniors or those placed in care for a period of time may have their voter registration addresses changed.
Now that they have returned home, they may find it challenging to secure absentee voting or go to their polling locations. It is time we consider those who have served our nation and deserve the right to vote simply with respect.
While voting is a privilege and a civic duty, many seniors and people with physical or cognitive impairments encounter barriers that make this process far more complicated. Mobility issues, transportation problems, and a lack of accessible polling places are just a few hurdles that can stand in the way. For these citizens, ensuring their voices are heard often requires additional help, and that’s where caregivers, community groups, churches, temples, synagogues, and support systems come into play.
As a caregiver, it was my honor to support my mother’s right to vote by securing her absentee ballot and returning it to the Board of Elections with the 12-P Form stating that I am turning in my mom’s ballot on her behalf. The 12-P Form is another hurdle preventing our seniors and those needing care.
The Role of Caregivers and Family Members
Caregivers, whether professional or family members are essential in assisting their loved ones during election season. This assistance can take many forms, from driving to the polling station to physically helping someone into a polling place to reading and marking ballots for those who are unable.
For those unable to leave their homes, absentee voting and mail-in ballots provide an alternative. However, even filling out and returning a mail-in ballot may require assistance, and caregivers must be aware of their role to ensure the voting process is legal and ethical. States have different rules about how much help can be provided, and it’s essential to research the correct procedures beforehand.
The Transportation Challenge
Getting to the polls is not a simple task for individuals who no longer drive or live in areas with limited public transportation. Seniors who rely on walkers or wheelchairs may find polling places inaccessible due to a lack of ramps or uneven sidewalks may not be able to vote. Similarly, people living in rural or suburban areas may be miles away from their nearest polling station, making it impossible to reach without outside assistance.
During voting, caregivers and family members, government, and community groups play a crucial role in their right to vote. Seniors or those with additional needs may require transportation to be arranged, whether through community volunteer programs, ride-share services, or specialized medical transport. Further, some transportation may be cost-prohibitive and be another reason not to vote. Some organizations, such as local nonprofits, provide rides for seniors and those with disabilities, but these services can be limited, requiring advanced scheduling and not always aligning with voting hours.
Is Your Polling Place Senior Ready
Once seniors or people with disabilities make it to the polls, further challenges may arise. Physical barriers such as stairs, lack of seating for long wait times, or narrow hallways can prevent access. Standing in line for extended periods can be physically exhausting for those with limited mobility, while those with vision or cognitive impairments may struggle with the ballot design.
Federal law mandates accessible polling places, but that isn’t always true. Some states have made strides with curbside voting or mobile voting units that allow voters to cast ballots from their cars. However, these services are not always widely advertised or available in all areas.
Make Voting Accessible for All Now!
Addressing these challenges requires both community action and policy changes. Some steps that could improve accessibility include better public information about alternative voting methods, expanded curbside or home-based voting options, and increased funding to ensure all polling locations are ADA-compliant. Cities can set aside funding to support those needing transportation during this time.
Volunteers, neighbors, churches, organizations, and even local businesses can offer support by providing rides or setting up accessible voter registration drives and absentee ballot education. For caregivers, awareness is the first step. Understanding the specific needs of seniors or individuals with disabilities and advocating for their right to vote is essential.
Ultimately, voting is a fundamental right, but it’s an uphill battle for many. Ensuring that seniors and those with disabilities can participate fully in the democratic process is not just a logistic challenge — it’s a matter of equity and justice. Caregivers, communities, and local governments must work together to ensure that all voices are heard this election season and in all elections.
For those who may take the ability to vote for granted, it’s important to remember that even small acts of support can make all the difference for those facing significant challenges. Voting should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age or ability. Help our seniors and those who need to vote!