Locating paratransit for older adults. You can find transportation providers through the local telephone directory (usually in the government pages). Or look online, using search terms such as bus company, public transportation, or rapid transit service and the person's hometown.

A couple of online tools can also help. AARP's website offers this handy State-by-State Guide to Transportation Assistance. Another good state-by-state transportation finder is offered by the American Public Transportation Association Agencies.

The cost of paratransit. Paratransit costs as much as -- or sometimes more than --regular public transportation. It's not a reduced-fare program; it's an accessibility program. The ADA says paratransit fares can't exceed twice the fare of a comparable trip using the regular transit service.

However, many transportation agencies offer reduced "senior fares." This applies to any older adult, disabled or not.

Also, if the person you're caring for is Medicaid eligible, Medicaid may pay for some paratransit service. Check with his Medicaid case manager.