Lyft is rolling out a new service nationwide designed specifically to make rideshare more accessible and user-friendly for older adults.
Beginning May 5, the ride-hailing service will launch Lyft Silver, which will provide a more simplified product design meant to attract older users, including those who have given up driving due to declining vision, hearing loss, or slowing reflexes.
The company says the new service comes as the number of Americans reaching retirement age continues to grow, while the number of older adults using ride-hailing services stagnates. One in five Americans is over the age of 65, but Lyft says that demographic represents only 5.6% of its overall user base.
Lyft has collaborated with local partners for the program, including Los Angeles-based health care provider AltaMed.
“For many of AltaMed’s senior patients, a lack of transportation poses a significant barrier to accessing health care,” the organization said in a statement. “Lyft’s commitment to providing convenient and accessible rideshare options is a game-changer for AltaMed patients in Los Angeles County, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate medical care.”
AltaMed says it will work with Lyft Silver to provide rides to medical appointments for its Viva Gold members—patients aged 62 and older who are managing multiple chronic conditions.
Citing 2024 census data, Lyft says transportation access also plays a key role in the mental health of older adults. Those who report having sufficient transportation options are three times less likely to experience loneliness compared to those who do not.
“Transportation is key to human connection,” Lyft officials said.
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