Transportation Resources for Seniors in Broward County

Quick answer: Broward seniors have four main options: Broward County Transit fixed-route buses with a reduced fare for riders 65 and older; TOPS paratransit, which provides door-to-door rides for people who cannot use regular buses; free or low-cost city Community Buses and circulators such as Fort Lauderdale's Sun Trolley; and non-emergency medical transportation, which Medicaid and many Medicare Advantage plans cover for eligible riders getting to appointments. BCT buses are lift-equipped and wheelchair accessible.

Summary

Giving up the car keys is one of the hardest transitions of aging — but it doesn't have to mean giving up independence. Broward County has a real range of transportation options for seniors, from public transit with senior discounts to door-to-door paratransit, medical transport, and caregiver-assisted rides. Here's how each one works and who it's for.

Broward County Transit (BCT)

BCT runs the county's fixed-route bus network, and seniors 65+ (and riders with disabilities) qualify for a reduced fare with proper ID or a reduced-fare permit. Buses are lift-equipped and accessible. For an active senior who lives near a route, this is the cheapest way to get around. Route and fare details are on the Broward County Transit website, or by calling the county.

TOPS paratransit (door-to-door)

For seniors who can't use a regular bus because of a disability, BCT's TOPS (Transportation Options) program provides ADA paratransit — shared, door-to-door rides scheduled in advance. Riders must apply and be found eligible. It's a lifeline for people who can't safely walk to or wait at a bus stop, and fares are kept low. Apply through Broward County Transit's paratransit office.

Community buses and city circulators

Many Broward cities operate their own Community Bus routes and circulators — often free or nearly free — that loop through neighborhoods to shopping centers, medical offices, libraries, and senior centers. Fort Lauderdale's Sun Trolley is a well-known example. These are ideal for local errands. Check with your city's Parks & Recreation or transportation department for routes and schedules.

Non-emergency medical transportation

Getting to dialysis, the cardiologist, or physical therapy is the most common transportation need in later life. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) may be covered for eligible seniors through Medicaid and through many Medicare Advantage plans — check the member benefits of your parent's plan. Some plans include a set number of covered trips per year to and from medical appointments.

Rideshare and senior ride services

Uber and Lyft offer on-demand flexibility, and both have simpler "senior-friendly" booking options; a family member or caregiver can also request and manage rides on a senior's behalf. There are also ride services geared specifically toward older adults that offer scheduled, more personal service. These are great when public transit doesn't reach or when timing needs to be flexible — just confirm your parent is comfortable getting in and out safely on their own, or arrange help if not.

Where to start

If you're not sure which option fits, dial 211 to reach the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Broward County. They can walk you through transit, paratransit, medical transport, and any local senior ride programs based on your parent's location and needs. It's the fastest way to cut through the options.

When a ride isn't enough

Public transit and rideshare drop your parent at the curb — but many seniors need more than that: a steady arm from the door to the car, help carrying groceries, someone to wait during the appointment and explain what the doctor said, and company on the way. That's door-through-door support, and it's where a companion caregiver makes the biggest difference. A DavidStar caregiver can drive your parent to appointments, errands, and outings, stay with them throughout, and get them safely home — turning transportation from a worry into a solved problem. If your parent recently stopped driving, this is often the safest and most reassuring option. Call us to talk it through.