Senior SavingsTransportation·Mar 6, 2026
When Driving Gets Harder: Senior Transportation Options That Don't Break the Bank
Uber Health, ITN America, paratransit, volunteer driver programs — the alternatives to a car most seniors don't know exist.
The cost of keeping a car
The IRS estimates car ownership at $0.67/mile all-in (gas, insurance, maintenance, depreciation). A senior driving 5,000 miles/year is spending $3,350. Often a mix of alternatives is cheaper.
Alternatives ranked by cost
- Senior bus/paratransit ($1–$3/ride) — usually free or low-cost for ADA-qualified seniors.
- Volunteer driver programs (free) — many faith-based and non-profit programs.
- ITN America ($10–$15/ride) — non-profit, door-through-door for seniors.
- Uber and Lyft ($15–$40/ride depending on distance).
- Uber Health — booked by family members or doctors' offices for medical trips.
- Medical transportation through Medicare Advantage plans (varies; often free or $5).
Veterans transportation
VA provides free transportation to medical appointments through the VA. Call your local VA Medical Center transportation office.
Senior ride-share apps
- GoGoGrandparent — call a phone number to book Uber/Lyft without a smartphone. Tiny markup, huge accessibility.
- HopSkipDrive — vetted drivers, scheduled rides.
Bottom line
A senior who gives up driving and uses a mix of paratransit + Uber + volunteer programs typically spends $1,000–$2,000/year vs. $3,000–$5,000 for a car — and avoids the safety risk. Don't wait for a serious accident to consider the alternatives.