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Sunday, February 10, 2019

Solving the Problem of Transportation - Ride Sharing for Seniors

In a 2016 Pew survey, 61 percent of older adults said they would prefer to age in their own home. While aging in place can ease the stress of relocating to a new environment, it’s accompanied by some limitations and challenges. In-home care is required, from medical services to cleaning and meal preparation. While there are many companies that provide these services, some seniors can feel isolated and over-dependent when everything is brought to their home. This is one reason that easy transportation is vital for our aging population. Whether to visit family or get out in nature, having dependable means of transportation can help the elderly maintain their independence and stay connected with their community.



In recent years, ride-sharing services have quickly become one of the most convenient forms of transportation, particularly in urban areas. Ride-sharing services are not only affordable but can pick you up at nearly any location. However, only eight percent of people age 50-64 and four percent of people age 65 or older have used a ride-sharing service according to a study from Pew Research Center.

Why is this the case?

Firstly, many elderly lack the technical knowledge to use the smartphone apps that ride-sharing services depend on. While younger generations have embraced the use of smartphones in their everyday lives, many people are accustomed to hailing taxis on the street or scheduling a ride with a phone call. GoGoGrandparent is seeking to fix this problem. A service that lets you call one phone number to schedule an Uber or Lyft, GoGoGrandparent eliminates the need to setup an account or navigate the interface of a smartphone.

Read more about GoGoGrandparent at https://gogograndparent.com/

One of the other challenges a senior may face when trying to find transportation is the lack of accommodations for mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. Not only do these devices require adequate storage space in the vehicle, but the person using them often needs assistance getting in and out of the vehicle. One company that seeks to help by providing special accommodations is Uber. Uber’s “uberASSIST” service provides vehicles that can fit wheelchairs, walkers and collapsible scooters. Furthermore, their drivers are trained on how to assist those with mobility challenges.

Read more about uberASSIST at https://www.uber.com/info/assistau/

While those who chose to age at home will likely face mobility and transportation challenges, it doesn’t have to stop them from getting around.

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