Tips for using public transport if you live with physical disability

Do you have your ticket ready? Safely accessing public transport like the bus or train is an important aspect of living independently and connecting with the community. Public transport allows you to go shopping, meet friends, access essential services including healthcare, and go to work without relying on other people. Public transport is also an affordable and practical option for people who may not have access to private vehicles like Uber or taxis.

We’ve designed this article with our Senior Support Workers to give a ‘crash course’ in all things public transport; it serves as a guide to getting started. From buying a ticket, planning your route, communication, and how to use accessible features on public transport, we’ve covered everything you need to know about taking public transport.

Affordability – by choosing to travel by public transport, people can save a lot of money by not taking Uber or taxis.

Independence – using public transport provides a sense of independence. Novita client, Taylah (pictured above), said she enjoyed taking public transport because it allowed her to participate in activities that she enjoys away from home.

Improved mental health – Taylah also mentioned that traveling via public transport created a sense of routine, built her confidence, and had an overall positive effect on her mental health. Traveling to and from seeing friends and engaging in activities she enjoyed allowed her to feel a sense of belonging within the community.

Improved physical health – Taking public transport keeps you active since you need to walk to stops and destinations. Plus, being outside helps you get extra sunshine!

Although there are many benefits to traveling via public transport, people with disability can face some challenges, especially with issues of accessibility and communication.

Accessibility – although most modern buses have accessible features, including ramps and disabled seating, some older models may not.

Communicating when you need help – sometimes, communicating when you need help is hard, especially if people around you aren’t aware of your disability.

Interruptions and delays – interruptions and delays are an inevitable part of traveling via public transport. When you are used to a routine, it can be difficult to experience a significant unplanned change.

Although there can be some challenges when using public transport, remember that you can easily prepare for these and ensure that you feel confident and prepared when traveling.

Below, we have provided some useful tips and tricks to prepare when taking the bus, train, tram or any other form of public transport.

People with disability can apply for concession cards offering free travel on public transport. These concession cards include a vision impairment travel card, PLUS ONE free companion card and mobility pass.   

Vision impairment travel card:
People with vision impairment can apply for a vision impairment card when travelling on public transport. To prove they are eligible for this concession, they must have an assessment from a medical professional. The assessment must determine that you are legally blind in both eyes.    

You can apply for a vision impairment travel card here.  

Mobility pass:
A mobility pass is a printed and laminated card that people can show the driver when they enter any public transport vehicle and provides users with free travel across all of Adelaide Metro. The mobility pass is offered to people who have significant physical and cognitive impairments (i.e., an acquired brain injury or dementia). To be eligible for a mobility pass, you must provide a current assessment from a medical professional and add supporting documents, including medical records and a current diagnosis, onto your application.  

You can apply for a mobility pass here.

If you’re going to be using public transport regularly, it’s a good idea to have a few practice sessions with a family member, carer, support worker, or therapist. You can research routes on applications like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and on the Adelaide Metro website. 

Traveling at peak hours can sometimes be more difficult. One option is to avoid busy times until you feel comfortable and confident with your public transport routine.  

Peak hour traffic hours usually fall at the start and end of the school and workday when people are traveling to and from home.   

• Morning hours typically include: 7:00am – 9:30am  
• Night hours typically include: 5:00pm – 7:30pm  

Before traveling, make sure you are prepared for your journey. Items to pack could include:

• Your wallet (including your ID, Metrocard, and concession card)
• Your phone (with all relevant numbers: friends, family, and emergency contacts saved)
• Portable charger if you’re traveling a long distance (some buses have USB ports for charging)
• Sensory toys and accessories
• A drink bottle

If you’re taking the bus, drivers appreciate it when people communicate with them when they get on board so that they can clarify any travel issues and have plenty of time for preparation. For example, you can let the driver know the stop you want to get off at so they can assist you with the ramp or any other needs.

Stations, stops, interchanges, and public transport can all cause sensory interruptions. If the excessive noise, visual input, or movement is uncomfortable, it might be worth doing something settling before using public transport. For example, meditation or doing some breathing exercises. Those sensitive to noise might like to wear headphones to cancel outside noise. Some of our clients have found chewing gum a good way of settling their nerves, while others find fidget toys calming.