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Original poster

Why won't my parents use a taxi?

151 replies

Birthdayfeel · 07/07/2026 17:27

Both have become old and frail with limited mobility almost overnight, after being very sprightly well into their 80s.

Getting them to arrange the help they need in all areas is challenging, but this one is a mystery to me.

Mum is more capable than Dad and has always been someone who likes to be busy. Dad is happier just to sit.

They have always been careful with money, but are very well off.

The main things Mum wants to go to are the library, Supermarket and the Community Centre, all within 10mins walk when they were able.

I'm genuinely happy to drive them when I can, but when I can't they just don't go. Taxis are plentful here and they can easily afford the cost of the short trips, but they won't, despite Mum being very disappointed when she can't go to these things. It leaves me feeling rubbish for saying no, I need to work (albeit frrom home).

OP posts:
EvelynBeatrice · 08/07/2026 19:35

LittleGreenDragons · 08/07/2026 11:55

I also won't use taxis for many reasons:

I struggle to get in and out of back seats due to hip and knee problems . I have actually been stuck once and my DD struggled to help me out. Too many taxi owners don't like you sitting up front (and I hate the proximity too).

It is too expensive/frivolous to use just for a haircut or library, but I would use it for a hospital appointment. It is a valid use of a limited fund. It's not as though I can work overtime to replace those funds.

I'm hard of hearing, plus I have always struggled with strong accents, so I'm easily confused if they start asking questions especially when they ask for bloody directions! About 1 in 5 ask which way to go.

Most refuse to take cash or card. I worry that they haven't stopped whatever they need to do to register the journey is over so my (actually it is DDs) account is debited fairly. How would I dispute that??

Most taxi firms have a minimum spend so shortish journeys, such as to the hairdresser, cannot be achieved.

I feel vulnerable as I have no control, and too many speed or brake violently or not give way at junctions so I'm thrown about. As someone who is in permanent pain it makes it a very uncomfortable journey.

I don't like being in a small area with an unknown male. Never have even as a fit young adult.

The older I get and the more disabled (due to worsening joints) the more vulnerable and scared I have become. It's been a surprising "journey" of self discovery that I've not been emotionally or mentally prepared for and I hope it never happens to others.

I’m sorry. It makes me angry that e.g. Glasgow City Council refused to grant a taxi licence to an all female driver taxi firm. So
many women would feel safer.

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