GreatCall, a wholly owned subsidiary of Best Buy that makes connected health devices for active aging, announced the nationwide availability of GreatCall Rides to address one of the top issues in aging: transportation. Following a successful pilot program in five markets, GreatCall now offers this service to all customers, providing easy access to Lyft rides.
Customers simply press “0” on their Jitterbug phones and tell GreatCall’s Personal Operator Service where they want to go. The cost of the ride, along with a nominal fee, will be added to the customer’s monthly bill.
“By working with GreatCall for the last two years, we’ve already been able to remove the transportation barrier for so many older adults in the U.S., making it easier for them to get to a medical appointment, go to the movies with friends, or just to get to the grocery store,” Gyre Renwick, VP of Lyft Business, said in a statement. “We’re excited to see how our positive impact can continue to grow with our national launch together.”
Giving up driving is one of the top fears of older adults, impacting independence, self-esteem, and the ability to participate in social activities. GreatCall Rides offers an easy-to-use and affordable option, helping older adults to get around without having to use a smartphone app. This is especially important for people living in cities that do not have easily-navigated public transportation. In fact, GreatCall found that 77 percent of its pilot riders are repeat riders — continuously relying on this service to live independently.
“While ride sharing services for this age group are often seen as a way to get to medical appointments, our customers use it for much more – staying connected with friends and family and participating in the activities they love,” added David Inns, CEO of GreatCall. “With social isolation a critical healthcare risk in aging, transportation solutions like GreatCall Rides makes a difference in health and wellness.”
GreatCall Rides is now widely available across the country, and GreatCall customers will receive $5 off on their first ride.