Senior Discounts on Transportation Around Washington: A Comprehensive Guide
As a senior in Washington, having affordable and reliable transportation options is essential to maintaining independence and staying connected to your community. Luckily, there are numerous transportation services across the state offering significant discounts to seniors. Whether you're heading to a doctor’s appointment, visiting friends, or just exploring the beautiful sights of Washington, this guide will help you find the best transportation deals tailored specifically for seniors.
At Caringene, we’re committed to supporting seniors in their day-to-day lives, including helping them navigate transportation options that meet their needs. You can learn more about how we support seniors by visiting our About Us page and exploring the affordable care services we offer on our Pricing Page. Let’s dive into the best senior transportation discounts available around Washington.
1. Public Transportation Discounts for Seniors
Public transportation is one of the most convenient and affordable ways for seniors to get around Washington. Most transit agencies in the state offer discounted fares for seniors, making it easier to travel without breaking the bank.
King County Metro (Seattle Area)
King County Metro provides a Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP) for seniors aged 65 and older. With this card, you can ride the bus, light rail, streetcars, and ferries at a discounted rate. For just $1.00 per ride, seniors can travel throughout the Seattle area, making it an affordable and accessible option for daily commutes or special trips.
How to Apply: You can apply for the RRFP in person at the King Street Center in Seattle or by mail. The one-time fee for the card is $3.00.
Sound Transit
If you’re traveling further around the Puget Sound region, Sound Transit offers discounted fares for seniors with the RRFP. This includes travel on Link light rail and Sounder trains, as well as express buses. Seniors only need to pay $1.00 per trip.
Pierce Transit (Tacoma Area)
Pierce Transit offers discounted senior fares for those 65 and older. With the RRFP, seniors can travel on Pierce Transit buses for as little as $1.00 per ride.
For more information on staying active and connected in your senior years, be sure to read our blog post on Staying Active in Your Golden Years. Staying mobile and engaged in your community is key to a fulfilling life, and affordable transportation makes it even easier.
2. Senior Discounts on Washington State Ferries
Washington’s iconic ferry system is a fantastic way to travel between the many islands and peninsulas of the state, and seniors are eligible for reduced fares. The Washington State Ferries offer seniors a discount of approximately 50% off standard passenger fares.
Routes: Popular ferry routes include Seattle to Bainbridge Island, Edmonds to Kingston, and Anacortes to the San Juan Islands. These ferry rides offer stunning views of the Puget Sound and surrounding mountains, making it a great way to explore the state while saving money.
Planning your next adventure around Washington? Make sure to pack light and bring your RRFP for discounted ferry fares. If you need help with transportation to and from your appointments or social outings, Caringene offers transportation services as part of our in-home care packages. Learn more about our services and pricing on our Pricing Page.
3. Ride-Sharing Services for Seniors
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are becoming increasingly popular among seniors who prefer door-to-door transportation. While these services don’t have direct senior discounts, both companies offer senior-friendly options and specialized services that prioritize accessibility and ease of use.
Lyft’s Concierge Service
Lyft offers a Concierge Service for seniors, which allows caregivers, family members, or senior care providers like Caringene to book rides on behalf of seniors. This eliminates the need for seniors to use smartphones or apps, making transportation even easier.
Uber’s Senior Ride Program
Uber has introduced several senior programs that simplify the process of booking a ride. With Uber, seniors can enjoy reliable transportation without the hassle of public transit. Additionally, Uber’s Uber Health service enables healthcare providers to book rides for seniors to get to medical appointments.
At Caringene, we provide more than just caregiving services. Our transportation offerings ensure seniors can attend doctor’s appointments, social outings, and events with ease. For seniors living in Washington who are looking for reliable, accessible transportation, Caringene is here to help. Learn more about our services on our About Us page.
4. Senior Discounted Car Rentals
If you’re planning a longer road trip or prefer to drive yourself, several car rental companies offer senior discounts.
Hertz
Hertz offers up to 20% off car rentals for AARP members. This discount is available at participating Hertz locations and is perfect for seniors planning a road trip or needing a rental vehicle for a special occasion.
Avis and Budget
Avis and Budget also offer senior discounts through AARP. AARP members can save up to 30% on car rentals at participating locations, making it easy and affordable to rent a vehicle for a vacation or family visit.
Enterprise
Enterprise offers discounts for seniors through specific partnerships with organizations like AARP. Be sure to ask about any available deals when booking your car rental.
For more budgeting tips to help you manage travel and daily expenses as a senior, explore our blog post on Budgeting for Your Golden Years.
5. Volunteer Driver Programs for Seniors
In addition to discounted public transit and ride-sharing services, there are several volunteer driver programs available for seniors in Washington. These programs often provide free or low-cost rides for seniors to medical appointments, grocery stores, and social events.
Sound Generations (Seattle Area)
Sound Generations offers a Volunteer Transportation Program, where trained volunteer drivers pick up seniors and drive them to appointments and errands. The service is free for seniors aged 60 and older, but donations are encouraged to support the program.
Catholic Community Services Volunteer Services
Catholic Community Services offers volunteer transportation across Washington, including King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties. Seniors aged 60 and older can receive free or low-cost rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and more.
Senior Companion Programs
Several communities in Washington offer Senior Companion Programs, where volunteers provide companionship and transportation services to seniors. These programs often cater to seniors who need help getting to and from doctor’s appointments or errands but may not have family or caregivers nearby.
At Caringene, we believe that transportation shouldn’t be a barrier to independence. Whether you need transportation to medical appointments, errands, or social events, we can provide you with reliable and affordable solutions. Find out more on our Pricing Page.
6. Referral Program: Earn $100 for Every Successful Referral
At Caringene, we offer more than just transportation services—we provide comprehensive in-home care tailored to the unique needs of seniors. And now, you can earn $100 for every successful referral! If you know someone who could benefit from our services, refer them to Caringene today.
Learn more about our Referral Program and start earning rewards by helping others receive the care they deserve.
7. Join Our Senior Community on Facebook
Want to stay connected and learn about more senior-friendly discounts and events in Washington? Join our Washington Senior Meet and Connect Facebook group! This community is designed for seniors to share tips, advice, and updates on local events, including transportation deals, wellness tips, and more.
Join the group here to connect with fellow seniors and stay informed about exciting opportunities.
Conclusion
Getting around Washington doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. With senior discounts on public transportation, ferries, ride-sharing, and car rentals, seniors can enjoy affordable and accessible travel options across the state. Whether you’re planning a trip or just need help getting to a doctor’s appointment, there are plenty of options available to meet your needs.
At Caringene, we provide more than just in-home care. We help seniors maintain their independence and stay connected to their community with reliable transportation services. To learn more, visit our About Us page and check out our affordable pricing on our Pricing Page.
Safe travels!
