Medicaid Transportation for Seniors

Seniors enrolled in Medicaid are entitled to Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) — free rides to and from medical appointments when no other transportation is available. This is especially valuable for seniors who need regular trips to dialysis, chemotherapy, or specialist appointments.

To access Medicaid transportation, contact your Medicaid managed care plan or state Medicaid office. Schedule rides at least 2–3 days in advance.

Area Agency on Aging Transportation Programs

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are local organizations funded through the Older Americans Act that coordinate services for seniors. Most AAAs operate or coordinate transportation programs, including:

- Volunteer driver programs that provide free rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other destinations - Subsidized taxi or ride-sharing programs - Coordination with local transit systems - Escort services for seniors who need assistance

Find your local AAA at eldercare.acl.gov or by calling 1-800-677-1116.

Senior Transit Discounts

Most public transit systems offer reduced fares for seniors, typically age 65 and older. Federal law requires transit systems that receive federal funding to offer half-price fares to seniors during off-peak hours.

Many transit systems offer:

- Half-price or free fares for seniors - Monthly senior passes at reduced rates - Door-to-door paratransit services for seniors who cannot use fixed-route buses

Contact your local transit authority to learn about senior fare programs.

Volunteer Driver Programs

Volunteer driver programs are one of the most valuable transportation resources for seniors, particularly in rural areas where public transit is limited. Volunteers use their own vehicles to provide free rides to seniors for medical appointments, errands, and social activities.

These programs are typically operated by:

- Area Agencies on Aging - Faith-based organizations (many churches and synagogues run volunteer driver programs) - Nonprofit organizations like ITN America and AARP - Local senior centers

Dial 2-1-1 or contact your local AAA to find volunteer driver programs near you.

Ride-Sharing and Technology Solutions

Ride-sharing services like Lyft and Uber have expanded transportation options for seniors who are comfortable with smartphone technology. Some programs help seniors access these services:

- **GoGoGrandparent** — allows seniors to use Uber and Lyft without a smartphone - **AARP programs** — AARP has partnered with transportation providers in some areas - **Medicaid ride-sharing** — many states now use Lyft and Uber for Medicaid NEMT

Some communities also have senior-specific ride services operated by local nonprofits.

Finding Transportation Help Near You

Resources for finding senior transportation assistance:

• Eldercare Locator — eldercare.acl.gov or 1-800-677-1116
• Dial 2-1-1 — for local transportation referrals
• Your local senior center — often knows about community transportation options
• Your Medicaid managed care plan — for NEMT scheduling
• Your local transit authority — for senior fare programs and paratransit
• AARP — aarp.org for transportation resources and advocacy