Transportation Options for Older Adults
Staying mobile is a big part of staying independent. Whether it’s getting to appointments, meeting friends, or running errands, reliable transportation helps older adults stay connected and active. But for those who no longer drive or prefer not to use smartphone apps, finding the right ride can be a challenge.
Many local governments provide free or low-cost transportation for seniors, but these services are often limited to medical appointments and must be scheduled well in advance. While these programs are valuable, they’re not always the most flexible or convenient for everyday needs.
Fortunately, there are now more options than ever; ranging from high-tech ride shares to personalized services designed especially for older adults. Here’s a look at what’s available and how to choose the right fit for you or your loved one.
New Frontiers: Driverless Ride Services Like Waymo
Imagine calling a car that drives itself—no driver, no conversation, and no need to listen to someone else’s music. That’s the experience with autonomous ride services such as Waymo, which now operates in parts of the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Phoenix.
For many older adults, this technology offers real benefits:
- Safety: There’s no stranger in the car, which can feel more secure for some passengers.
- Comfort: The ride is quiet, private, and predictable.
- Convenience: Once set up, rides can be requested with a few taps—or with phone assistance in select areas.
Driverless rides aren’t available everywhere yet, but they point to an exciting future of greater comfort, privacy, and independence for seniors.
One of my clients recently switched from using Lyft to Waymo because she feels safer without a driver in the car. She appreciates the peace of mind that comes from knowing each ride is monitored and that phone support is always available if she needs it.
Bridging the Technology Gap: Assisted Ride-Hailing Services
Lyft Silver: A Simpler App Experience for Older Adults
For those who aren’t fully comfortable with smartphone apps, several services make using Lyft or Uber much easier.
Lyft Silver is one such option. It is a simplified version of the Lyft app designed to make ride booking easier for older adults. The interface features larger text, clearer menus, and streamlined booking steps. It is ideal for those who are comfortable using smartphones but prefer a less complicated experience.
It’s a free feature within the Lyft app, and rides are charged the same way as regular Lyft trips. Fares are based on factors like route, ride type, and local demand.
Phone support is available for Lyft Silver users between 8 AM and 9 PM ET. To reach an agent:
- Tap “Get help” in the top-right corner of your Lyft app.
- Enter your phone number and tap “Call me.”
To activate Lyft Silver:
- Open the Lyft app and tap “You” in the bottom-right corner.
- Choose “Lyft Silver” and turn it on.
- The app may restart and return you to the home screen.
You can turn Lyft Silver off anytime.
Lyft Silver is a great option for older adults who want to stay independent and use rideshare services with confidence and ease.
(Note: Uber has recently launched a similar feature that allows you to simplify the app or create a “senior account.”)
GoGo: The Freedom of Rideshare Without the App
If using a smartphone still feels like too much, there are also services that let you arrange rides entirely by phone. GoGo (formerly GoGoGrandparent) is a concierge service that connects riders with transportation options like Lyft and Uber, without using an app.
Users simply call a phone number to schedule a ride.
GoGo handles all communication with the driver, monitors the trip for safety, and can even send text updates to family members about the ride’s progress. This gives seniors the freedom to plan rides in advance or travel spontaneously.
Subscription plans range from $12 to $20 per month, plus the cost of each ride. This small monthly fee gives seniors the flexibility to plan rides in advance or travel spontaneously.
Full-Service Transportation: Door-to-Door Help
For those who need or desire more personalized assistance, full-service ride companies provide a higher level of care and attention. These services are often designed exclusively for seniors and staffed by drivers trained to assist with mobility aids, grocery bags, and door-to-door escorting.
SilverRide is a well-known example, serving parts of the Bay Area and other metropolitan regions. Their drivers go beyond basic transportation; they can accompany clients to medical appointments, help with check-in, and even wait during short visits.
These full-service options are particularly valuable for seniors who want a reliable, familiar driver and appreciate assistance beyond the curb.
The Bottom Line
Today’s senior transportation options are more flexible than ever. Whether you prefer the privacy of a driverless car, the simplicity of GoGo’s phone-based service, or the personal touch of a full-service ride, there’s a solution to fit your comfort level and needs.
Staying mobile means staying engaged with your community, your friends, and your independence.
Be Active Be Well
RESOURCES
Community and Government-Funded Ride Programs in the San Francisco Bay area and nationally:
- Paratransit: Federally mandated local transportation for people with disabilities. Search “paratransit [your county]” for eligibility and application details.
- National Council on Aging – Benefits Check Up®: A free online tool that helps older adults and people with disabilities find benefits programs and resources. Enter your ZIP code to see available services and supports in your area.to help cover the cost of food, health care, housing, and more.
- Veterans Transportation Program (VTP): Offers free rides for medical appointments for eligible veterans.
- Peninsula Jewish Community Center (PJCC): The Get Up & Go Senior Transportation program provides free rides for non-driving older adults to medical and dental appointments, as well as errands such as food shopping.
- Mobility Matters (Contra Costa County): A volunteer-driver program offering free, one-on-one, door-through-door rides for seniors and veterans.
- Next Village SF: A community-based organization that connects volunteers with older adults who need rides or companionship for errands and appointments.
Further Reading:
Seniors for America Blog: [What Are the Options for Senior Transportation?]
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Joanne Bedwell, PT, is the Resident Blogger at Be Active Be Well. Based in San Francisco, she lives with her husband and two nearly grown daughters. With over 25 years of experience as a physical therapist, she provides in-home client care and teaches fitness classes both in person and online.
DISCLAIMER: This article contains information that is intended to help the readers be better informed regarding health care issues. It is presented as general advice on health care and is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. The reader should consult with their doctor in any matters relating to his/her health.
