Transportation Resources For Seniors in London, ON
As we age, getting around town can become more and more challenging, especially if you aren’t able to drive yourself anymore. However, finding reliable transportation for seniors in London, ON, is essential. Whether it's getting to a doctor’s appointment, picking up groceries, or attending a local event, seniors in London need reliable transportation to maintain their independence, health, and quality of life as they age in place.
When driving may no longer be an option for some older adults, there are many transportation solutions for them. London has several senior transportation programs, services, and systems that support the elderly, including public transit and specialized ride services.
At Senior Home Care By Angels, we understand how important being mobile and independent is for seniors who wish to age in place. While we do not provide transportation, the in-home caregivers we connect our clients with can assist by helping seniors prepare for outings, coordinating with local rideshare and transportation services, and offering companionship and support at appointments or errands.
To better help the seniors in our community, we want to provide information on the top transportation resources for seniors near you in London, ON, including programs that offer rides to doctors' appointments for seniors and options that are customized specifically for older adults.
Senior Transportation In London, ON
211 Ontario: Your Gateway to Senior Transportation Services
One of the most useful resources for families and caregivers in London is 211 Ontario. This is a free and confidential helpline and database that connects individuals to their local community and government programs. Seniors and their families or caregivers can use 211 Ontario to find a wide variety of transportation support services in London and throughout Ontario.
You can use their website to find transportation services under the “Older Adults” section, or simply dial 2-1-1 to speak to a trained advisor who will guide you to services based on:
Services for seniors that can be found through 211 include:
-
Volunteer driver programs for the elderly
-
Rides to non-emergency medical appointments, including physical therapy
-
Wheelchair-accessible transportation services
-
Transportation to and from adult day programs and recreational activities
If you're feeling overwhelmed or don’t know where to start when searching for senior transportation options, 211 Ontario is an excellent first step in securing safe and dependable senior transportation in London, ON.
London Transit Commission (LTC)
The London Transit Commission (LTC) is the public transportation system in London that provides a senior-friendly public transportation system that spans the entire city. Seniors can travel throughout the city with ease, thanks to both cost savings and thoughtful accessibility accommodations.
Benefits for seniors include:
-
Discounted Fares - Seniors who are 65+ are eligible for reduced pricing on monthly LTC passes and pay-per-use options.
-
Accessible Buses - All LTC buses have low-floor entrances, making it easier for seniors with walkers, wheelchairs, or limited mobility to get on and off.
-
Priority Seating - Seats at the front of each bus are reserved for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
-
Comprehensive Route Coverage - LTC services most medical centers, shopping hubs, senior centers, and residential neighbourhoods.
To apply for a discounted senior transit pass to the LTC, individuals can visit the LTC Customer Service Office or find information on their website at londontransit.ca.
LTC Specialized Transit: Door-to-Door Transport for Seniors with Mobility Challenges
For seniors who are unable to use regular public transportation, the London Transportation Commission offers a Specialized Transit program that provides an alternative transportation service tailored to their needs. The Specialized Transit program offers door-to-door transit in wheelchair-accessible vehicles for eligible senior residents.
Key Benefits of LTC Specialized Transit:
-
Eligibility-Based Service - Seniors must apply and meet medical or physical criteria that show that they are unable to use conventional buses.
-
Scheduled Service - Rides through this program must be booked in advance, often requiring you to call 24-48 hours ahead.
-
Medical & Non-Medical Trips - Transportation is available for seniors who need to get to doctor visits, go grocery shopping, attend social events, and more.
-
Companion-Friendly - A primary caregiver or family member can accompany the senior at no additional cost.
The LTC Specialized Transit program is for those who require rides to doctors for seniors, especially when regular taxis or buses are not an option.
Volunteer Driver Programs in the Community
Volunteer transportation programs in London can provide elderly transportation services for those who need help getting to medical appointments, the pharmacy, or running other important errands. These programs are typically run by local non-profit organizations, community centers, and home health networks, and are a compassionate and cost-effective option for seniors.
Some of the organizations that may offer volunteer rides to doctors for seniors in London include:
-
Neighbourhood Resource Centres - These community resource centres often operate senior outreach and transportation programs for residents within their service areas.
-
Southwest Community Health Centre - In addition to providing health services for seniors, some SCH centres coordinate volunteer drivers to support senior patients' needs.
-
Faith-based Organizations - Churches and religious centres may offer assistance with transportation for seniors in London, ON, or be connected to city-wide senior services.
Volunteer drivers through these programs are often trained to assist seniors and offer companion-like care when providing assistance, ensuring the rider safely enters and exits the vehicle and arrives on time at their destination.
Rideshare Services and App-Based Options for Seniors
While traditional rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are not specifically designed to be user-friendly for older adults, they can still be a viable transportation resource for seniors in London, especially for those who are comfortable with using smartphones.
Rideshare Options Include:
-
Uber and Lyft - Quick and convenient, these transportation services can be used to book last-minute rides to doctors for seniors or events.
-
Uber Assist - Uber Assist is designed for individuals who need a little more help with scheduling a ride. This option provides drivers who are trained to assist riders with mobility requirements.
-
GoGoGrandparent - GoGoGrandparent is a unique service provided in the US, Canada, and Australia that allows seniors to request rides without a smartphone. By calling a toll-free number, seniors can schedule Uber or Lyft rides with the help of a live operator who acts as a personal concierge.
How We Can Help With Senior Transportation In London, ON
There are many transportation resources for seniors in London, ON, and with the right combination of community services, caregiver support, and thoughtful planning, seniors can stay connected, healthy, and independent in their homes.
At Senior Home Care By Angels, our non-medical home care team is here to help your family make the most of the transportation services throughout London. Let us help your loved one with planning, coordination, and providing personal support every step of the way.
What Our Clients Say
"The last 3 months of my beloved 95 year old Mother’s life was under the care team with Seniors Home Care by Angels for 24/7. Being able to stay in her own home was paramount. The select group of Angels that rotated were absolutely outstanding. Their prompt arrival, gentle care, provisions of meals and genuine companionship was endearing. These Angels were very astute professionals that related to my Mothers needs demonstrating excellent initiative and compassion. As my Mothers primary caregiver, I was able trust the Angels and then, I could relax knowing that she was safe, content and happy to be in her own home until her death. I will always be grateful for the unwavering kindness that these earth Angels provided for my dear Mother."
– Barb H. (More reviews here)
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Your loved one can preserve their independence and age at home for as long as possible with our senior care services.
Each Senior Home Care by Angels agency is a franchise that is independently owned and operated. The Franchisor, Visiting Homecare International Inc., does not control or manage the day to day business operations of any Senior Home Care by Angels franchised agency.