By Thomas H.
The theme of Older American’s Month 2024 is “Powered by Connection.” This theme reminds us that being connected to other people helps support good health and overall wellbeing. One way to stay connected is to visit a senior center, where you can make new friends, socialize and share a meal.
Unfortunately, seniors who don’t drive can find it challenging to get around. But Philadelphia seniors have safe and reliable options for getting where they need to go, including free or low-cost options.
Septa
The first option is SEPTA. SEPTA buses, trolleys, and subway lines are free to seniors ages 65 and older. According to SEPTA, Seniors ride for free on all routes for bus, trolley, Broad Street Line [B], Market-Frankford Line [L] and the Norristown High Speed Line [M]. Travel is also free for seniors on all Regional Rail throughout Pennsylvania. Septa states that seniors must have a valid Senior Fare card. According to the City of Philadelphia, other acceptable forms of ID are a PA driver’s license, Medicare card, PA senior citizen transportation card, SEPTA Key senior photo ID or PA non-driver identification card. For more information, contact SEPTA at 215-580-7145 (Press 6), or visit https://wwww.septa.org/fares/senior-fare-card/
Public transportation is a great way to get around. However, trolleys and some subway stations are not accessible by people with limited mobility. And what if the bus or train won’t get you close enough to your destination?
CCT Connect
Fortunately, SEPTA runs a separate program for seniors who aren’t well served by bus, trolley, or subway. This program is called CCT Connect. CCT Connect is a shared ride service that provides door-to-door service for people 65 and older. The service costs $4.25 each way. An aide or attendant can ride along for the same fee. CCT vehicles are accessible to people who use mobility devices.
According to the City of Philadelphia’s transportation guide, CCT Connect, “requires reservations 1-3 days in advance, and is offered on a space-available basis. It can be used to travel anywhere within the City of Philadelphia and to locations within 3 miles of the City’s limits.” Seniors who want to use the service must apply. To receive the application or for more information about the service, seniors can contact customer service at (215) 580-7145 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m Monday through Friday. For more about riding CCT, visit https://wwww.septa.org/cct/traveling-on-cct-connect/
Other Services
Some insurance companies will arrange for transportation for members who need to get to medical appointments. If you have private health insurance, contact your provider and ask if transportation is covered by your policy.
The City of Philadelphia Transportation Guide lists several other transportation services that may be helpful for seniors. These can be an option when public transportation doesn’t serve a destination or there isn’t enough time to book a ride through CCT Connect. Most have a fee. These include ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft, medical transportation companies, which can be used in non-emergency situations, and other options. To download the City of Philadelphia’s Transportation Guide, click here https://www.phila.gov/documents/transportation-guide/
JCAH is committed to helping clients live fully and independently. Contact us today for more information about our award-winning services for seniors and adults with disabilities: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/