Brenda Lyle – Florida Today
By Brenda Lyle
Q: I don’t drive anymore. What are some transportation options for seniors?
A: Getting around can become more challenging with age, but in Central Florida, there are several transportation options designed specifically to help seniors maintain independence and stay connected to essential services. Whether it’s getting to a doctor’s appointment, picking up groceries, or visiting family, these programs offer practical solutions for older adults in Brevard, Orange and Seminole Counties.
In Brevard County, Aging Matters in Brevard provides two valuable transportation programs. Senior TranServe is designed for residents aged 55 and older who can get in and out of a vehicle independently. Once enrolled, riders are asked to schedule free trips at least seven days in advance, ensuring reliable and organized service.
Vets Driving Vets is a free transportation service for veterans of any age– to essential destinations like medical appointments at the VA Outpatient Clinic in Viera, and other healthcare providers. Like Senior TranServe, participants must be ambulatory and able to enter and exit a vehicle on their own, and advance notice is required for scheduling rides.
GoGoGrandparent (in all 50 states) connects older adults with on-demand ride services, grocery delivery, Door Dash food delivery and more. Once an account is established, seniors can simply make a phone call to get an affordable ride–generally within 15 minutes. Their GoGoGuardian system adds an extra layer of safety with trip monitoring, driver vetting and special needs accommodations. For more, visit www.GoGoGrandparent.com.
For seniors in Seminole or Orange County, several transportation options are available for various needs. ACCESS LYNX offers a shared, door-to-door ride service for individuals unable to use traditional bus routes due to a disability or limitation. Once their eligibility application is approved, riders gain access to a tailored transportation option.
Another helpful resource is Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando’s RIDE (Reliable Independent Drivers for the Elderly) program. Open to members of the Central Florida community regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, age, gender, or ability, RIDE supports qualifying low-income seniors and adults with disabilities by providing up to two free round-trip rides each month within a ten-mile radius.
Some seniors may also qualify for transportation services through their Medicaid plans. These benefits vary, so contact your specific provider for available options. Usually plans cover rides to and from medical appointments only.
Finally, Seminole County’s SCOUT is an app-based, on-demand, shared micro-transit and rideshare service with no fixed routes or schedules. Seniors 65+ receive 50% off standard fares. Riders can request transportation on demand, track their vehicle in real time, and travel when it’s most convenient.
With these options, seniors in Central Florida have more opportunities to stay mobile, independent, and connected to the people and services that matter most.
Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager and Certified Dementia Practitioner with One Senior Place, Greater Orlando. One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
