Getting Around: Transportation Options for Older Adults in Denver

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As we get older, transportation can become challenging. We may or may not feel comfortable driving, especially at night – or we may have given up our car or willingness to drive. We also may hate to bother our loved ones to help us, and may have mobility aids that make it hard to transition from our home to a vehicle.

While these barriers may cause frustration, they do not need to prevent anyone from staying active, connected, and as independent as possible. In Denver, there are many transportation options to make getting around easier, designed to accommodate safety, comfort and mobility.

We’re providing an overview of many appealing options, plus a few safety tips to promote traveling with confidence.

🚍 Kavod Senior Life: Excursions and Errands

Residents at Kavod in both Assisted Living and Independent Living can get to grocery stores, to activities such as lunches and outings, and on trips through one of our scheduled van trips. In Assisted Living, Kavod transportation is included in its pricing!

Calendar

Each month, Kavod publishes a calendar with all the outings. You can find it here. There are many choices to keep everyone active and engaged!

Community

All activities and trips are open to community members who are not Kavod residents in Assisted or Independent Living. We welcome nonresidents to join us! Fees may apply, but options are affordable.

 

🚍 RTD Transit: Reliable and Affordable

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers several services that make public transit more senior-friendly.

Senior Discounts

Adults 65 and older receive reduced fares on all RTD buses and light rail trains—an excellent option for daily activities.

Access-a-Ride

For older adults with limited mobility, Access-a-Ride is a door-to-door paratransit service. A driver picks individuals up at home and safely takes them to the desired destination.

FlexRide

FlexRide shuttles operate in various Denver neighborhoods and can be scheduled for short rides nearby—especially useful for quick errands or appointments.

Safety Tips for Using RTD

  • Sit near the driver if that feels more comfortable.
  • Keep bags and personal items close.
  • Bring a fully charged phone with you.

 

🚐 Via Mobility Services: Door-to-Door Support

Via Mobility Services is a nonprofit dedicated to helping older adults and people with disabilities move around independently.

This service is ideal for individuals who prefer added support or need mobility accommodations.

Safety Tips for Using Via

  • Let the scheduler know if you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair.
  • Confirm the driver’s name and your destination before boarding.

 

🤝 Community & Nonprofit Ride Programs

Denver also has several community groups that provide transportation or help coordinate it:

  • Seniors Resource Center
  • Senior Support Services

These organizations often provide low-cost or donation-based rides for grocery trips, medical appointments, and social outings.

Safety Tips

  • Schedule trips early to ensure a spot.
  • Ask arriving drivers to confirm your name.

 

🚗 Private Senior Transportation Services

Denver has several private companies specializing in senior-friendly rides, including wheelchair-accessible vans. These services cost more but offer flexibility and personalized assistance.

These may be good choices for individuals who wish to attend the Kavod on the Road off-campus programs, held at various locations near campus. Kavod has a list of companies in a link on its Kavod on the Road webpage to review.

Safety Tips

  • Confirm costs when booking so there are no surprises.
  • Carry an emergency contact list with you.

 

📞 GoGoGrandparent: Rides Without a Smartphone

For individuals who do not have or use a smartphone, GoGoGrandparent can arrange Uber or Lyft rides over the phone. They handle the technology and send updates so people know who is coming and when they’ll arrive.

Safety Tips

  • Before getting in the car, make sure the driver states your name and destination.
  • Stay indoors until your driver arrives for added safety.

 

❤️ Staying Safe on Every Trip

No matter how you travel, a few habits can help you stay safe and stress-free:

  • Keep a list of medications and emergency contacts with you.
  • Carry a bottle of water and a small snack.
  • Keep your mobility devices in good working condition, as well as any oxygen or other support services you need to stay healthy.
  • Don’t hesitate to decline a ride if something feels off.

 

Final Thoughts

Many residents at Kavod Senior Life are able to release their cars due to the transportation availability on campus, as well as the support of these additional options.

If your loved one is seeking communal living that is able to keep him or her active, engaged and connected, reach out to us and schedule a tour or fill out an application. We promote active aging, and it shows!