Transportation Options

Most counties across the U.S. offer free or low-cost public transportation services designed for seniors who need door-to-door rides.

The best way to find these programs is to call your county’s Area Agency on Aging. They’ll connect you with available local programs.

The ElderCareLocator is another way to find local government transportation programs – enter zip code in the search box at the top of the page.

GoGoGrandparent is a concierge service that connects seniors with on-demand ride services like Lyft and Uber. These services can have a car at your location in minutes.

Best for: Seniors who are able to get in and out of a car without assistance

Price: Riders pay the regular price for the on-demand ride plus an additional fee for the concierge service. On-demand ride fares vary, but are generally lower than taxi rates.

How it works:

• Use any touch-tone phone to call the toll-free number and arrange a ride
• Live operators are available 24/7
• For safety, rides are monitored and drivers are screened
• Notifications about the ride are available for family members via text message
• Walkers and foldable wheelchairs are no problem

Lyft is a popular on-demand ride service that can have a car at your location within minutes.

Best for: Independent seniors who are comfortable using smartphone apps and can get in and out of a car without assistance

Price: Varies, but is generally lower than taxi rates.

How it works:

• Download and set up the Lyft app on your older adult’s smartphone
• Use the app to book a ride and pay automatically by credit card when the ride is finished

Special service for seniors: Concierge service (no smartphone required) is available through Lyft partners like assisted living communities, health organizations, etc. Ask local organizations if they partner with Lyft.Advertisement

Veyo is a company that partners with insurance companies and health facilities to provide non-emergency medical transportation that’s covered as an insurance benefit.

Best for: Seniors who need transportation to medical appointments and those who need a special vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair or stretcher

Price: Free, if their insurance company offers Veyo as a transportation benefit

How it works:

• Ask your older adult’s insurance company if Veyo is one of their transportation benefits – if yes, they’ll help you schedule rides
• Seniors and caregivers can’t sign up for the service or arrange rides – only a health organization partner can arrange rides

iTNAmerica is a national network of senior ride companies that offer door-through-door transportation.

The number of locations is limited, but it’s a great option if it’s available in your older adult’s area.

Best for: Seniors who need assistance in and out of the car and through the door to their destination

Price: Rates are affordable, but pricing varies depending on the local affiliate

How it works: Contact local offices for more information and to schedule rides

6. Additional resources

• Call local senior centers to see if they offer transportation services
• If none of these options are working for you, please ask for help. Emed will do whatever we can to help!