Skip to main content

    Rideshare for Seniors

    Independence without driving.

    Uber

    $8-30/ride

    Biggest. Most cars available. Tip in app. Schedule rides up to 30 days ahead.

    Best overall.

    Lyft

    $8-30/ride

    Same as Uber, often $1-3 cheaper. Switch between both for best prices.

    Best price comparison.

    GoGoGrandparent

    Uber/Lyft + $0.34/min surcharge

    CALL a 1-800 number — no smartphone needed. They book Uber for you. Operator stays on line.

    Best for non-smartphone users.

    Lyft Concierge

    Family pays

    Family member books rides for you on their phone. You just get in.

    Best if family is helping.

    SilverRide / SilverNest

    $25-40/ride

    Senior-specific. Driver helps with walker, groceries, doctor appointments.

    Best for mobility help.

    First Uber/Lyft ride — step by step

    1. Download Uber AND Lyft from app store. (Compare prices.)
    2. Sign up — name, phone, credit card.
    3. Open app at home. App detects your location.
    4. Type destination address.
    5. App shows price + estimated wait time. Tap "Confirm".
    6. Driver name + photo + license plate appear. Watch for them.
    7. Get in. They drive you. No payment in car (charged automatically).
    8. Rate driver and tip in app after.

    Safety tips

    • Confirm driver name & license plate BEFORE getting in.
    • Sit in back seat (recommended for both you + driver).
    • Share trip with family — Uber and Lyft both have "Share Trip" button.
    • Phone fully charged.
    • Carry water bottle, especially in summer.
    • Use Uber/Lyft "Quiet Mode" if you don't want chatty driver.

    When to use each

    • Doctor's appointments — schedule both directions in advance.
    • Grocery store — driver helps load bags into trunk.
    • Airport — UberX cheaper, UberXL for big bags.
    • Going out for dinner — better than driving home tired.
    • Family events — saves anyone having to come pick you up.

    Insurance/Medicare may cover medical rides

    Many Medicare Advantage plans cover free or low-cost rides to doctor appointments. Some Medicaid programs do too. Call your plan and ask about "non-emergency medical transportation". Often through Modivcare, Roundtrip, or LogistiCare.