Following closures of pharmacies in Boston neighborhoods, and to improve access to a range of health and wellness services, the Boston AgeStrong Commission teamed up with the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts and Lyft on the “Holistic Health Access Initiative (HHAI),” which provides transportation to wellness services for older Bostonians.
The initiative was reported on by the Boston Globe and WBZ News. HHAI is a pilot program that offers free “Healthy Rides” to Boston’s older adults (age 60+) to connect to wellness services including:
- Medical Appointments
- Pharmacies
- Wellness Programs
- Senior/Community Centers
- Social Activities
- Support Groups
Older Boston residents may book their Healthy Ride by calling the Age Strong Shuttle at 617-635-3000 and saying “Healthy Ride.” If older adult residents already have a Lyft account set up on a smartphone, the Age Strong Shuttle staff can give people a promo code for a Healthy Ride.
Healthy Rides are valid for free rides to wellness services within Boston and each older adult may receive up to 5 complimentary rides, while supplies last.
The Age Strong Shuttle can assist with Healthy Rides during their usual hours: Monday through Friday, 8 – 4 p.m. The staff can also help people book Healthy Rides up to one month in advance.