As our loved ones age, staying connected to the community becomes more important — and more challenging. Whether it’s a doctor’s appointment, grocery run, or visit with friends, transportation shouldn’t be a barrier to independence.

That’s where non-emergency senior transportation comes in — offering safe, reliable mobility options tailored to older adults across Massachusetts. Here’s what families, caregivers, and senior centers need to know when choosing the right provider.

What Is Non-Emergency Senior Transportation?

Unlike emergency medical transport, non-emergency senior transportation supports daily living — without the need for sirens or stretchers. It’s designed for older adults who don’t require urgent medical attention but still need help getting around safely and comfortably.

Common trip types include:

• Medical appointments and physical therapy
• Grocery stores and pharmacies
• Adult day care or community centers
• Family visits, religious services, and social outings

At Van Pool, we specialize in these essential, life-enhancing trips — always with care, respect, and attention to every rider’s needs.

Why Safe Senior Transportation Matters

Aging shouldn’t mean isolation. Yet lack of transportation is one of the top reasons seniors miss appointments, skip errands, or withdraw from social life. Unsafe or unreliable rides — like public transit or unvetted ride-hailing apps — can lead to:

• Missed healthcare visits
• Falls or injuries during boarding
• Anxiety about logistics
• Unreliable pickup or wait times

That’s why a trusted non-emergency transportation provider is critical. Van Pool is proud to serve seniors with:

• Trained, background-checked drivers who assist door-to-door
• Clean, well-maintained vehicles with easy access and secure seating
• Reliable scheduling and prompt arrival times
• Caring, patient service that prioritizes dignity and safety

What to Look For in a Senior Transportation Provider

Choosing the right service means asking the right questions. Here’s what to consider:

1. Safety and Driver Training

Make sure the company hires drivers with:

• Specialized training in assisting older adults
• CPR and first aid certifications
• Clean driving records and background checks

Van Pool drivers are selected for their professionalism and compassion — not just their driving skills.

2. Accessibility and Vehicle Quality

Look for:

• Low-step or ramp-accessible vehicles
• Secure seatbelts and mobility aid accommodation
• Regular vehicle inspections and cleaning protocols

Every Van Pool vehicle is ADA-compliant, climate-controlled, and optimized for rider comfort and safety.

3. Scheduling and Support

How easy is it to:

• Book rides in advance?
• Speak to a real person?
• Coordinate repeat trips?

Van Pool offers flexible scheduling, live phone support, and consistent routes for ongoing needs — with real-time updates when requested.

4. Affordability and Coverage

Does the provider:

• Work with insurance or Medicaid brokers?
• Offer pricing for senior centers or municipalities?
• Provide transparent costs with no surprise fees?

Van Pool partners with many local programs and facilities, helping reduce financial barriers for essential transportation.

Who We Serve

Van Pool is proud to serve:

• Individual seniors and their families
• Adult day programs and senior centers
• Assisted living and long-term care facilities
• City and state agencies seeking reliable NEMT partners

Whether you need a one-time ride or recurring weekly transport, our team builds solutions that work — and we always show up with a smile.

How to Get Started

Booking with Van Pool is simple and stress-free. Here’s how:

1. Call or submit a ride request
2. Share your destination, date, and any mobility needs
3. Get matched with a friendly driver and vehicle
4. Enjoy a smooth, safe, on-time ride — every time

Need to coordinate transportation for a group or facility? Our operations team is happy to help with routing, scheduling, and invoicing.

The Bottom Line

Mobility means freedom — and every senior deserves to move through life with dignity. Whether it’s a trip to the doctor or a lunch with old friends, non-emergency senior transportation keeps Massachusetts seniors connected, independent, and cared for.

Compassion on the Road

At Van Pool, we’re more than a ride. We’re a reliable partner in every senior’s journey — treating each passenger like family, because that’s how we’d want our own loved ones treated.

Contact us today to schedule a ride or learn more about our senior transportation programs.