Free Transportation for Seniors: Staying Independent with Aging Forward Durham
Aging brings wisdom, stories, and many contributions to the community. It can also bring challenges. One of the biggest challenges for older adults is transportation, especially for those who no longer drive but still need to get to medical or dental appointments. In northern Durham, North Carolina, Aging Forward Durham is helping seniors stay active and independent by offering free transportation.
Driving no longer has to be a barrier for you to get to your appointments.
What Is Aging Forward Durham?
Aging Forward Durham is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting seniors in northern Durham County. The mission is to help older adults remain healthy, independent, and connected. They provide free round trip transportation to medical and dental appointments at no cost to the rider.
This service is more than a ride. It is a vital support system that allows seniors to maintain their health, dignity, and independence.
Who Is Eligible?
• Seniors age 65 and older
• Individuals living north of I-85 in Durham County
• Seniors who are living independently in their own homes
How Does the Program Work?
Sign Up: Seniors or caregivers complete a simple registration form.
Volunteer Drivers: Rides are provided by trained and background checked volunteer drivers from the local community.
Safe Assistance: Drivers help riders in and out of the vehicle and make sure they enter and exit their destinations safely.
Completely Free: All rides are free thanks to volunteers and community support.
Why This Matters for Seniors in North Durham
• Improved Health Access: Transportation challenges can cause seniors to miss important medical visits. Free rides remove that barrier.
• More Independence: Seniors no longer need to rely fully on family or friends for medical transportation.
• Community Connection: Drivers often become trusted companions and help reduce social isolation among older adults.
• Room to Grow: The program has a vision for expanding to support even more areas of Durham County in the future.
How to Participate
For Seniors
Those who need help getting to medical or dental appointments can register and schedule rides in advance.
For Volunteers
Volunteer drivers are always welcome. Training and background checks are provided. Volunteering offers a meaningful way to support seniors, build new relationships, and strengthen the local community.
Part of a Larger Movement
Aging Forward Durham is part of a broader national effort focused on helping seniors age in place and stay active in their communities. This local chapter adapts that mission to meet the needs of northern Durham.
Why Free Transportation Makes a Difference
• It empowers seniors to stay in control of their lives.
• It provides a safe and comfortable way to get to appointments.
• It reduces out of pocket costs.
• It creates trusting connections between seniors and community volunteers.
A Message for Seniors in North Durham
If you are a senior living in northern Durham, this service is here to support you. Aging Forward Durham helps you stay independent, healthy, and connected. Transportation should never stand in the way of your well being, and with this program, it does not have to.
For community members who want to make a difference, volunteering as a driver is an opportunity to offer comfort, kindness, and support to neighbors who need it most.