What Seniors Need to Know About Rideshare Transportation in Phoenix
Whenever you decide to give up your vehicle as you move into assisted living or senior housing, Phoenix has several different ways of traveling around as you explore the city.
Of course, if you need a ride, we are happy to arrange it for you at BridgeWater Assisted Living, whether you want to be part of a regularly scheduled shopping trip or outing or you have a specific appointment to attend. But if you’re already out and about, or if you prefer to delve into the city on your own terms, you are certainly welcome to make any arrangements you prefer.
Here are three things to know about senior transportation in Phoenix, Arizona:
1. Public Transit Through Valley Metro Is a Great Way to Start!
Public transportation in Phoenix is extensive and includes bus, rail, carpool, vanpool, and paratransit services. Find maps and schedules, guides on fares, and frequently asked questions on the Valley Metro website. You can also find information about reduced fare programs (seniors aged 65 and over can receive a discounted fare ID card). There’s also a handy Trip Planner tool that can help you get from Point A to Point B—just enter where you are and where you want to go, and the system will plot a route for you.
2. How to Use Other Rideshare Options
“Rideshare” is an online platform that acts like a carpool service. On your smartphone, you’ll use an app for that rideshare company to request a ride. Someone who contracts with that rideshare company will pick you up within a few minutes and you’ll be ready to go. If you already know where you’re going to be, you can also schedule a ride in advance. You’ll pay for your ride through the app, and you can also provide reviews and tips once your trip is over. Check out which rideshare companies are in your area—the easiest way to find out is to do a web search for “rideshares near me.”
3. Taxis vs. Rideshare Companies
From its description, a rideshare sounds like a taxi service, right? There are a few differences, though, including that the employees of a taxi service go through a background check and carry a commercial driving license instead of a standard vehicle’s license. The downside of taxi services, though, is that sometimes their system doesn’t extend all the way out to rural areas, whereas rideshare may.
Whenever traveling via rideshare, make sure to take a few safety precautions if you need to travel alone: share your trip with others, either by telling someone where you’re going or by choosing a carpool option. That way, you’ll be traveling with other people to a similar destination. You can also see your driver’s picture and license plate and read your driver’s previous reviews and ratings before you confirm the pickup. If you don’t like something you read about them, you don’t have to confirm the transaction.
Contact us at BridgeWater Assisted Living today if you have more questions about senior transportation through our Phoenix communities—we’d love to hear from you.