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SEARCHOlder adults across the Bay Area are gaining greater independence through nearly 14,000 subsidized rides provided by GoGoGrandparent, a service helping seniors access transportation without apps while supporting community connections.
Record ridership growth highlights the rising demand for senior-friendly transportation options as GoGoGrandparent expands its phone-based ride service across the Bay Area.
Photo: GoGoGrandparent
GoGoGrandparent, a mobility platform supporting independent living for older adults, has provided nearly 14,000 subsidized rides across Oakland, Berkeley, and San Leandro through its growing partnerships with local governments, the company announced.
Designed for aging adults who may no longer drive or use smartphones, GoGoGrandparent connects riders to on-demand transportation, delivery and care services.
The platform's growth underscores the increasing demand for specialized transportation solutions that support independence and community engagement among older adults.
The GoGo program saw 450% year-over-year growth in Oakland, making it the fastest-growing among the three cities.
Oakland and Piedmont residents aged 70 or older are automatically enrolled in the subsidized ride program, which operates via a 24/7 call center. No app or internet connection is required.
In Berkeley, GoGo's partnership with the Berkeley Rides for Seniors and the Disabled program resulted in 173% growth over the past year. The initiative offers qualified residents free Uber and Lyft rides, helping eliminate barriers to essential services and community participation.
In San Leandro, the FLEX RIDES On Demand program, active since 2020, recorded 67% growth in the past year.
The program enables qualifying residents (70+, or East Bay Paratransit certified) to receive subsidized 24/7 transportation across 14 nearby cities. For just $4 per ride, GoGo covers up to $20 of the fare, with rides typically booked by phone.
According to GoGoGrandparent co-founder and CEO Justin Boogaard, the rise in ridership is fueled by a blend of demographic shifts and the desire for seniors to remain independent.
“Triple-digit growth in some cities reflects the reality that many older adults want to stay in their homes, but lack the ability, or support network, to drive themselves,” Boogaard said. “Our work with local governments is closing a critical gap in mobility and care, particularly for seniors on fixed incomes.”
GoGo’s services are designed for ease of access. Seniors call a toll-free number to request a ride. Behind the scenes, GoGo integrates local and national transportation providers and pre-screens drivers for accessibility compliance and assistance readiness, ensuring vehicles can accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.
GoGoGrandparent’s growth in the Bay Area is a scalable example of non-app-based mobility solutions that align with public-sector goals around aging in place, transportation equity and accessible design, officials said.
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