Uber Health partner. GoGoGrandparent, launches transport business for seniors in Australia

Key points:

• GoGoGrandparent helps older people order a ride with a simple phone call, no smartphone is needed

• The program has attracted controversy online for its pricing and service delivery, although representatives have said the initiative has come a long way

• The service is available in the United States of America, Canada and — as of December 6, 2023 — Australia

GoGoGrandparent, the leading provider of transportation solutions for older adults in North America, has launched its inclusive, on-demand mobility service in Australia, delivered in partnership with Uber Health.

Older adults and people with disability in Australia can now call GoGoGrandparent at 13 46 28 to book Uber rides without needing a smartphone or the Uber app.

GoGoGrandparent has stated its four-pillar approach to transportation and service delivery is made possible through accessibility, 24/7 customer support, age-friendly customisation and oversight, in addition to a wide service area.

Through partnering with Uber Health, GoGoGrandparent allows seniors to request a ride by making a phone call on a mobile or landline phone. The GoGoGrandparent team will assist seniors with the booking process.

Tens of thousands of younger people with disability in the US and Canada also use GoGoGrandparent for rides.

GoGoGrandparent provides around-the-clock customer support, ensuring that seniors have assistance whenever they need it. From ride inquiries to real-time updates, the support team is dedicated to ensuring a stress-free transportation experience.

Through GoGoGrandparent’s platform, all rides are monitored by team members, who screen and match drivers and cars based on whether or not they can accommodate the needs of people living with visual, cognitive and mobility conditions.

Rides can be tracked in real-time by both the rider and their family members or caregivers. The partnership aims to offer comprehensive coverage across major cities and suburban areas throughout Australia, providing people with access to transportation wherever Uber is available.

Tony Sullivan, 79, is a retired English and economics teacher who lives 30 minutes outside of Brisbane and no longer drives, so when he recently had a doctor’s appointment downtown, he considered his options.

Other private services could be expensive and public options often have specific hours that could sometimes keep him out all day.

Tony Sullivan said GoGo is more convenient because you can get it at any time.

“I took it to and from the appointment and arrived on time,” said Mr Sullivan.

“It was excellent service. I just have to press a few digits on my phone and a car picks me up as soon as possible, which is really simple. I’ve been really happy with this new option. It suits me well.”

However, GoGoGrandparents isn’t without its detractors, as many people online who have used the service in North America, either as riders or drivers, have claimed that the pricing and professionalism of staff have been exploitative.

The service has an aggregate Google Review score of 2.4 stars out of a possible five stars, weighted across 49 reviews, with comments recounting their lacklustre experiences with the service.

Many Reddit threads have called the business into question for its practices, although there are some fans of the service who chimed in to leave positive comments that reflect their thoughts on the divisive service.

What are your thoughts on transport for seniors? Do you order a rideshare car through a mobile phone application or do you opt for a taxi? Let the team at Talking Aged Care know and subscribe to the FREE weekly newsletter for more information and industry updates!

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