Trouble Getting to the Polls for Midterm Elections?

Voting in the mid-term elections is easy for some people – just a quick walk around the corner or a short drive to the polling station. But for others, it may seem impossible.

Taking time off from work or overcoming physical disabilities can prevent many people from exercising their right to vote. And living in remote or rural communities can make getting to the polls particularly difficult. But with a little advance planning, you can make sure your vote is counted.

1. Vote by Absentee Ballot. You can register online at the Alabama Secretary of State's web site ( AlabamaVotes) if you have a disability or will not be in your county or otherwise are unable to vote in person and would like to use an absentee ballot. Please note that the deadline to submit an absentee ballot in Alabama is almost here: November 1, 2018.

2. Get a free ride. Several of the popular ride-sharing companies are offering free or discounted rides to the polls. Lyft, for example, announced it will provide free rides to the polls in underserved communities and 50 percent off trips to voting sites in other parts of the country.

3. Carpool. Driving long distances can be cumbersome, unrealistic or just dangerous for some voters. Reach out to family, friends or neighbors and ride to the polls together.

Before you cast your ballot, be aware of the issues that impact 50+ voters. You can find a wealth of non-partisan information on AARP.org/vote, pledge to vote and get updates on election information. #BetheDifference.Vote.