Transportation Alternatives for Non-Drivers

By 2030, it is projected that 8.7 million Americans will be over the age of 85, and most will no longer be able to drive. Historically, most older non-drivers tend to stay at home because they do not have alternative transportation options. So, how can older non-drivers be supported today?

For older adults who are not able to drive, transportation can be a challenge in itself. The absence of easy access and use of transportation, personal or public, can negatively impact overall health and well-being. Not being able to travel means it may be harder to stay connected socially, attend medical appointments, and complete daily activities. Without other reliable and safe transportation options, this can lead to isolation and other mental, physical, and emotional issues.

According to the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center, older adults may face these barriers due to a lack of information about different transportation options available to them. Thus, there is a need for transportation programs to consider how to implement accessibility to information and services for older populations. If you or a loved one are looking for transportation alternatives, consider these options:

Ride-Sharing 

Ride-sharing is a service, usually for a fee, in which a passenger travels in a vehicle driven by its private owner. This type of service is typically conducted through a website or app. Well-known ride-sharing apps include Uber and Lyft. Although ride-sharing services have consistently catered to the younger generation, these services are now beginning to accommodate the older adult demographic based on area and needs. For example, there are businesses like Liberty Mobility Now which serves a multitude of states and focuses on reaching individuals in rural areas, or there is SliverRide which functions in San Francisco and drives clients to not only appointments but also restaurants and entertainment.

Volunteer Driver Programs

Volunteer Driving Programs are an excellent option for those looking for an economic-friendly choice when traveling. As its name implies, this service is community-based in which a friend or neighbor volunteers their time and vehicle to help passengers go places they need to be. In addition to its free price, these volunteer programs also allow you to connect with your community and build new relationships. The National Center for Mobility Management has an interactive national map that provides a listing of all volunteer transportation providers in each state. 

Assisted Transportation (AKA Door-to-Door)

Door-to-Door transportation is for older adults who need a bit more than a ride somewhere. In addition to travel, the driver also acts as an escort who provides assistance throughout the trip. Whether it is someone to push your shopping cart or someone to make sure you are simply safe, assisted transportation is a more involved service. These types of services can be located through private companies, but may also be offered through your city. For example, the Los Angeles Department of Aging promotes assisted transportation, among others, by providing a phone number on its website.

It is important to know that alternatives such as these exist. Access to transportation is vital to keeping older adults connected socially, yet it continues to be a growing challenge in the United States. From ride-sharing to assisted transportation, there are a variety of options to help you or a loved one journey safely and comfortably.

— Lauren Goldberg