New Online Tool Will Help Older Adults Find Transportation Providers

Montgomery County recently launched a new online tool to help older adults find volunteer ride providers to help them get where they need to go, when they need to get there.

The online tool uses GIS mapping to connect an address with organizations, such as nonprofit groups and senior villages, who provide volunteer rides for such things as medical appointments and grocery shopping. In addition to free bus rides and a discounted taxi program for eligible residents, the County supports nonprofit organizations that offer volunteer rides.

Keeping older adults mobile and able to get what they need done underlies the County’s ongoing support of many aging-in-place villages, The Senior Connection, HELP organizations, and others.

“Mobility and accessibility to transportation options are critical to helping improve the quality of life for our older residents,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “This new tool makes it easier for residents to locate organizations providing rides. This service can help them remain more independent and better able to get to important appointments.”

The tool can be used by people with low or no vision who use screen readers and includes a link to a map for those interested in understanding various areas of Montgomery County, not just a specific address.