Senior Transportation Options

Donna Nichols • November 17, 2020

How do I Find Senior Transportation?

Oh no, I have a doctor’s appointment, but can’t drive anymore and all my family work, how will I get to my doctor’s office?

Don’t worry, there is help out there!!

Most counties offer public transportation for seniors, you do have to register with the county office.

Best Senior Transportation Options here in Florida

Here in Volusia County, Florida it is through Votran and called the Votran Gold program . You can find out more information about this program by visiting votran.org or calling 386-322-5100.

Whether you’re living independently or in an assisted living facility, there are requirements that must be met and you can find them all on their website.

Senior Transportation Options

GoGoGrandparent is another way to get around town.

They utilize Uber or Lyft vehicles and are available in all 50 states and Canada.

They have many services other than giving you a ride, they can have groceries or food delivered to your home, and you can call and schedule medication management and reminders with them .

The number for GoGoGrandparent is 1-855-464-6872.

You can also check out their website at gogograndparent.com to view more information and check out frequently asked questions.

Uber and Lyft may have had some bad reps in the past, but they are a safe and reliable way to get around.

You do need a computer and cell phone that receives and sends texts. They will send you updates as to how close your driver is to your location and a picture with the name of your driver.

This is a safety procedure they implemented to ensure people feel safer using their company.

You can also check with your local aging agenc y, here in Volusia County it is the Council on Aging and their phone number is 386-253-4700.

You can also visit their website at coavolusia.org.

They offer many different programs from meals on wheels to guardianship services. The council on aging will come to your home and install grab bars or change outlet cover plates .

They have staff who can assist in bathing and dressing. There are many services the council on aging offer, please reach out to them for anything you or your loved one may need.

I found a website titled, Department of Elder Affairs, State of Florida. From there I went to programs and services and clicked on transportation.

Florida Department of Elder Affairs

There I found findarideflorida.org where you fill out a short form and it lists all the transportation options that are filed with the State of Florida and meet your criteria.

I never knew there was anything like this out there, it’s a very cool site.

Also on that website is a section named Safe Mobility for Life. If you click on it, there are many informational links. Under the Aging Road User link are other links to sites as driver wellness, driver skills, help on the road, and many others. This is an extremely helpful website and very informative.

This website, elderaffairs.state.fl.us is a wonderful site and I’m sure many people can benefit from the information. Seniors, as well as caregivers and family members, are able to find the information to the many questions and/or concerns they may have.

As you can see, there are many options for senior transportation in Florida should you find yourself or your loved one unable to drive anymore.

Please reach out to any of the above programs to schedule your ride and leave the worry behind you.

If you need help or encouragement as a Caregiver give us a call at  386-847-2322  or check out our  Caregiver Support Group. Our  Senior Advisors  are here to walk with you through this journey.

Beating the Florida Summer Heat

By Donna Nichols • July 7, 2025
Florida summers come in three flavors: hot, hotter, and what fresh hell is this? Whether you're a lifelong local or newly initiated into the Sunshine Sweat Fest, you know it’s more survival sport than season. So, how do we stay cool without losing our cool? Here’s your sun-savvy guide to getting through it. Make hydration a hobby Not just water, electrolytes are your best friends when you're sweaty. Coconut water, cucumber-mint spritzers, watermelon slices. If your drink doesn’t sparkle, chill, or drip condensation like a rom-com montage, it’s not summer-ready. Dress for success and summertime Loose, light, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, or the holy grail: moisture-wicking. Bonus points for sun hats and SPF clothing that make you look like a beach detective on vacation. Fans ARE your best friends Table fans, ceiling fans, handheld fans—the whole rotation. Keep them oscillating like your thoughts during a political debate. And if you’ve got a cooling towel? You’re royalty. Avoid the “Roasting Hours” From 11 AM to 4 PM, Florida turns into a convection oven. Errands, walks, and yard work? Schedule them early or late. Unless you’re trying to get baked like a Publix cookie—then by all means. Sunscreen is a lifestyle Apply, reapply, then pretend  you're an influencer and do it again. Because nothing says “I’m melting” like a shoulder burn shaped like your purse strap. Eat lightly Cold meals can be your best friend—salads, chilled pasta, and fruit-forward lunches are all options. Bonus points if you serve them on plates fresh from the fridge like the true champion you are. Rest, reset, repeat If the heat’s making you crankier than a mosquito at a citronella convention, take breaks: shade, air conditioning, quiet corners. Recharge without guilt—you’re surviving a sauna with its own zip code. Florida heat might be relentless, but so are we. With humor, hydration, and a healthy dose of stubborn grace, we ride the wave and keep the ice cubes coming. Stay cool out there, friends. You’ve got this.

Honoring Independence Day with Grace

By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
Not every 4th of July needs to burst with fireworks. For many older adults, especially those with tender hearing, health challenges, or a fondness for quieter joys, Independence Day can be just as meaningful in a slower rhythm. It’s the scent of something delicious simmering nearby, the comfort of a cool seat and a cherished show, and the simple dignity of being remembered; of having made it this far, with stories to tell and wisdom that still glows brighter than any sparkler. Caregiver Tips for a Thoughtful 4th: Keep things soft and soothing. Loud sounds can be jarring for seniors with sensory sensitivities, dementia, or PTSD. Choose instrumental patriotic music or old-time radio shows that bring joy without overwhelming them. Build a gentle plate. Soft, easy-to-eat favorites like tender pulled chicken, mashed potatoes, or a festive red, white, and blue parfait (layered Greek yogurt, mashed berries, and crushed graham crackers) keep things celebratory without strain. Spark memories, not stress. Bring out family photo albums, classic Americana films, or even music from their youth. Columbo, The Andy Griffith Show, or golden-age musicals can be a comforting trip down memory lane. Create rest-friendly spaces. A cozy chair near the window, a shaded seat outside, or even a reclined viewing spot for a live TV broadcast of fireworks can help them feel included without fatigue. Let them lead the conversation. Ask about what Independence Day meant to them growing up. You might discover tales of ration books, war bonds, or dancing at VFW halls. These stories are treasures wrapped in the quiet of the day.  In the end, Independence Day is about honoring resilience—the kind that’s quieter, often overlooked, but profoundly enduring. Whether you’re caring for someone, being cared for, or simply holding space for reflection, there’s beauty in choosing peace over spectacle. This Fourth of July, let’s celebrate not just the freedom of a nation but also the freedom to adapt, to rest, and to cherish those we love in the way that suits them best.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
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