[Last updated September 5, 2025]

A woman looks through her rearview mirror at an older adult man who is seated in the back seat of her car.
Although retiring from driving can be a difficult decision that may make it feel like you’ve lost your autonomy, there are many transportation options for seniors that will keep them safe and independent. Photo Credit: iStock.com/adamkaz

Many seniors fear the loss of independence that comes with no longer being able to drive, but giving up the car keys doesn’t have to mean losing the freedom to come and go as you please. Whether you or your loved one has already retired from driving or you foresee a change in the near future, with a plan in place, you can ensure you can get everywhere you need to go. Here are eight transportation services and options for seniors, along with helpful information to make the most of each one.

Rideshare services for seniors

If you want flexible transportation on your schedule, consider a rideshare service. Some require advance scheduling while others don’t, making it easy to go shopping or meet up for lunch at the last minute. Here are a few ideas of rideshare services seniors can use.

Uber

Uber offers a special service for older adults. You can set up a special senior account with a simplified app experience so you can easily request trips on your own. It also offers safety features, allowing loved ones to track trips, add favorite places, and call the driver if there’s a concern.

Lyft

Lyft also offers a special service for seniors called Lyft Silver. It features a simple app with a live support team available during the day if you need help. Riders have greater access to cars that are easy to get in and out of, and trusted contacts can see real-time ride details, like drop-off locations. 

GoGo (GoGoGrandparent)

GoGo, formerly known as GoGoGrandparent, is a ride service specially designed for seniors. It allows them to request on-demand rides by phone that arrive in 15 minutes or less. You do not need an app to use the service, and with handy speed dial shortcuts, you don’t always have to speak to an operator, either. 

Simply call the toll-free number and select an option on your phone keypad. For example, you press 1 to send an Uber or Lyft to your home address. There are also options to have meals or groceries delivered through services like DoorDash or Instacart to your home.

SilverRide

SilverRide is a rideshare service for seniors that personalizes rides to ensure every trip is safe, comfortable, and on time. Drivers offer door-through-door assistance and support for those with mobility issues. Riders are vetted and credentialed, so you can expect a high level of service.

Public transportation and paratransit services for seniors

Public transportation is an affordable option for seniors. However, for people with disabilities or medical conditions that make traditional transit difficult, paratransit may be a better fit.

Paratransit, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act, is a public transportation option for those who cannot use traditional public transportation. Here are some things to know about paratransit rides:

  • Rides must be scheduled in advance, usually 24 to 48 hours before the trip. 
  • They offer door-to-door service in a wheelchair-accessible van or low-floor bus so you don’t have to travel to a bus stop.
  • Drivers assist with boarding and exiting, but passengers must get to and from the vehicle and destination independently.

To learn more about paratransit, click here.

Medicare or Medicaid transportation services for seniors

Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine transportation, but services may be covered under medically necessary or emergency circumstances. For example, Medicare may cover the cost of an ambulance and transportation that’s deemed medically necessary by a doctor, such as transport to a skilled nursing facility. 

Medicare Advantage (also known as Medicare Part C) is the private insurance carrier alternative to original Medicare. Since each plan varies from carrier to carrier and from state to state, special transportation benefits may be available. You’ll need to consult your plan to learn more. Trips may come with a copay.

Medicaid offers a broader range of non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). You can schedule appointments with a designated transportation broker through your specific health plan. Each state’s Medicaid program has different rules for how its transportation services for seniors work, but it can cover rides to doctors’ offices, hospitals, and other health care facilities.

Senior center shuttles

Some senior centers offer free or low-cost transportation services to and from their location for participants. They may also organize transportation for off-site events or trips. 

To find a senior center near you, search online or use the National Council on Aging (NCOA) map to find local programs and partners.

VA transportation services for senior Veterans

Veterans may qualify for additional transportation options through the VA. The Veterans Transportation Program (VTP) provides Veterans with rides or compensation for travel to and from VA health care facilities and authorized non-VA health care appointments. Because they partner with service providers in local communities, the types of transportation can vary and include:

  • Specialized buses and vans.
  • Taxis.
  • Airlines.
  • Trains.

Scheduling a ride is relatively easy. Once your VA facility helps you create a VetRide account, you can enter your zip code to request a ride from agencies near you.

Transportation help from home care providers

Some home care providers include transportation as part of their services. This option offers more flexibility than other programs, allowing seniors to choose destinations like grocery stores, restaurants, or friends’ and family members’ homes.

You also have more control over timing. There’s no need to wait for a scheduled pickup, and aides can help with more than just the ride, such as getting in and out of buildings or assisting with errands.

Volunteer driver and community ride programs

Some communities operate volunteer driver or community ride programs at low or no cost to seniors. These services typically focus on essential trips, like medical appointments or grocery shopping. 

Drivers are typically affiliated with and vetted through nonprofit or faith-based organizations. They may use their own vehicles and are often willing to help with things like carrying bags or assisting with mobility devices.

Here’s how to find a volunteer driver or community ride program near you:

  • Use the Eldercare Locator to find your local Area Agency on Aging, which can help you find volunteer programs in your area.
  • Search ITNAmerica, a nonprofit organization that provides community-based transportation for seniors and people with disabilities, to see if they offer transportation options in your community.
  • Reach out to local community organizations or faith-based groups to see if they can connect you with a volunteer driver.

Family coordination

Don’t overlook the support of friends, family, and neighbors. While you may hesitate to ask, many people will be happy to help. You just need to be respectful of their time.

You can make it easier for loved ones to give you rides by:

  • Scheduling rides a day or more in advance.
  • Being ready when they arrive to pick you up.
  • Return the favor however you can, like making them dinner or helping them fold laundry.

Stay safe with transportation options for seniors

Not driving anymore doesn’t mean you have to be stuck at home. You can find local transportation services for seniors so you can safely and comfortably get to medical appointments, attend senior program activities, visit family and friends, run errands, and more.