Senior Transportation Solutions
November 22, 2022 3:28 PM
by Peter Dzewaltowski
Older adults in Santa Monica have lots of ways to get around, and the Active Aging Pilot Program can help you take advantage of them. Below you will find information on how to get to where you need to go, without needing a car.
Walk
Explore the best of Santa Monica by foot or using a mobility device and get some fresh air on the way to your destination. Studies show that walking can add years to your life, improve memory, and help you get a better night’s sleep. If walking is an option for you, check out the resources and tips below to get started.
Tools
- Plan your best walking route using Google Maps. Enter your route information, click directions, then the pedestrian icon.
- Learn about improvements to Downtown that allow you to get around safely and efficiently here.
Getting Started
- Wear comfortable shoes with good support. Use any support you need for stability, such as a cane or walker.
- Wheeled mobility devices like wheelchairs and walkers are welcome on Santa Monica sidewalks, and most corners have a curb ramp to make it easy for you to cross.
- Pick streets with good lighting to help you see the walking surface.
- When crossing the street, make eye contact to be sure drivers see you.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks when available.
Benefits of Walking
There have been many studies to show why walking is good for both your mental and physical health. AARP has recently published the following articles highlighting the benefits:
Bike
Biking is great for your health and overall well-being. It’s easy on the joints, preserves balance, and is great for socializing with your peers! Whether it’s been awhile since you last rode a bike, or you’re unsure of the safest routes, we’re here to help. The resources and tips below will help you get started and learn more about facilities in the city.
Tools
- Plan your bike route using the Santa Monica bike map or Google Maps (be sure to click the bicycle icon!).
- The Bike Center is a one-stop-shop for bike parking, classes, rentals, maintenance, and more - stop by for advice and help
- Don't have a bike? Bikeshare is available in Santa Monica. Learn more about bikeshare offered by Metro here and learn more about Veo e-bikes here.
- Attend a group bike event! See upcoming events here.
Getting Started
- If you need help fixing up your bicycle or finding the right bike for you, try reaching out to The Bike Center – they are happy to help!
- Always wear a helmet. Helmets are required by law for anyone under 18, but encouraged for all.
- If riding at night, use bike lights and wear reflective, bright clothing so you are more visible.
- Bicyclists must travel in the same direction as car traffic. In Santa Monica, bicycling is not allowed on sidewalks.
Transit
You can get around Santa Monica by bus and train. Transit can give you the freedom and independence to get to destinations in Santa Monica and beyond. The resources below will guide you on your journey and help you build confidence navigating the city by transit:
- Big Blue Bus: There are many bus lines in Santa Monica and beyond.
- See the routes and schedules here
- Plan a trip here or using Google Maps (click the transit icon!)
- Learn about senior and low-income fares here
- Get tips for riding the bus here
- Use the Transit App for real-time arrival information (detailed instructions here) and to purchase mobile tickets
- Metro Rail: The E Line runs from Santa Monica to Downtown LA.
- Find everything you need to know about the E Line here
- Plan a trip here or using Google Maps (click the transit icon!)
- Learn about senior and low-income fares here
- Explore travel training and group trip opportunities here
- Use the transit app for real-time arrival information
Getting Started
- Visit the links above for schedules, service announcements, and payment information.
- Plan your trip ahead of time and give yourself a buffer if you have a time-sensitive appointment.
- The bus driver is there to help you. If you have a question, ask!
On-Call Transportation
On-call transportation is public transit on your schedule. Get convenient, curb-to-curb transportation with these services and programs:
- MODE: Big Blue Bus and WISE and Healthy Aging partnered with Lyft to provide curb-to-curb transportation.
- Find everything you need to know about MODE here.
- Prior to using MODE, eligible riders must register for the program at a MODE orientation session. For details on upcoming sessions, please contact WISE & Healthy Aging at (310) 394-9871.
- Access: When walking, biking, transit, or MODE isn’t an option, you may consider Access, a curb-to-curb shared-ride service for people with disabilities in Los Angeles County.
- Access is for people who are unable to use the bus system. Find out if you’re eligible, and apply here.
Authored By
Peter Dzewaltowski