Uber for seniors? I have no idea if this will ever be a business model, but I did have a laugh and an awakening moment the other day at one of my client's homes over a cup of coffee. In Fulton County (Atlanta), I was completely unaware of the amazing car services that are available to seniors to get around town. With all of the new restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues, even those that can't drive or don't have family to help them can get access to these cool services.
The first of these services is the DART S Service. It was started back in 2010 and to be eligible for the program you must:
- Be a Fulton County resident
- 55 years or older
- Have limited access to transportation
- Doesn't own a car
- Permanently or temporarily cannot safely operate a vehicle
- Has no consistent means of transportation
- Has no access to services within reasonable walking distance
To apply for the car assistance, you need to call the STAR line - 404-613-6000 and based on meeting the above requirements they will mail out an application to the senior citizen (if you can call 55 senior). The senior citizen has to call the STAR line themselves, no one can call on behalf of them. The senior then fills out the application and mails it back. There is no electronic version of this.
What's the cost? No charge for seniors - first come first serve. Based upon your zip code will ultimately determine where you can travel to within Fulton County.
The second program within the system is the TOPS - Transportation Options for Seniors (770) 993-1906 ext 234
This program has a different criteria to qualify:
- Seniors 60+
- For those with significant vision or other physical limitations
This program is designed specifically for medical appointments and other healthcare appointments. The cost is a voluntary contribution of $10 one way or $20 round trip is invited, but not required.
You can only use the service for one trip per month unless otherwise approved. You need to arrange travel 72 hours prior to appointment.
It can also include a 1:1 service feature, where someone will stay with the senior during the appointment.
The final program is called the GATE program (770)-993-1906 Ext 242
To be eligible for this program you must:
- North Fulton Resident
- 60+
- No longer able to drive
There are no restrictions for this program and the senior participant purchases a voucher book which contains $10 and $5 vouchers for a total value of $100, The cost for the book is $25. The senior gives the driver a voucher which is redeemed for cash.
You can find all of this information at http://www.ssnorthfulton.org/senior-services/transportation/ for your parents or grandparents. Maybe you'll come up with the Uber for seniors program, but in the meantime these services seem pretty awesome!
Written by: Ted Jenkin
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