Getting to a doctor’s appointment, the grocery store, or even a family gathering can be one of the biggest challenges for older adults and people with disabilities. For many families, transportation becomes a constant worry: “How will Mom get to her appointment safely?” “What if Dad needs help after a medical procedure?”
Now, a new partnership between the Metropolitan Council’s Metro Mobility program and Carepool is giving seniors and people with disabilities in the Twin Cities a better, more flexible way to get around.
Why This Matters for Seniors and Families
Independence doesn’t just mean living at home. It also means being able to get out into the community safely and on time. Traditional ridesharing apps like Uber or Lyft are convenient, but they don’t always provide the peace of mind that seniors and families need. With Carepool, the focus goes beyond simply getting from point A to point B.
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Familiar, consistent drivers: Riders may be matched with the same driver for repeat trips, creating trust and comfort.
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Extra care when it’s needed: After a medical procedure, for example, Carepool drivers can provide the kind of supportive assistance that goes beyond a standard ride.
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Safety and reliability first: Families can feel reassured knowing their loved one isn’t just getting a ride, they’re being cared for during the journey.
How Carepool Works
Metro Mobility riders can now choose Carepool as an option for same-day, on-demand trips. Here’s how it works:
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Riders call 612-284-5204 or use the Carepool app (launching this month) to request a ride.
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The cost is $5 to start, with Metro Mobility covering the next $15.
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If the total cost of the ride is more than $20, the rider pays the difference.
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Payments can be made with cash, credit, or debit.
For families, this creates a balance between affordability and flexibility. Metro Mobility’s traditional pre-booked rides remain the most cost-effective option ($3.50–$4 plus possible surcharges), but Carepool gives families peace of mind when plans change or urgent needs arise.
Meeting a Growing Need
Metro Mobility already serves more than 19,000 riders each month across the Twin Cities. Carepool, which launched locally about 18 months ago, expects to scale up quickly, with a goal of 5,000 rides a month in the near future.
This growth reflects something families have known for a long time: reliable transportation isn’t just a service, it’s a lifeline. Whether it’s ensuring that medications are picked up on time, attending therapy sessions, or simply being able to meet a friend for lunch, access to safe transportation helps seniors stay connected, independent, and healthy.
Why Families Love It
For adult children balancing work, kids, and caregiving, scheduling transportation can feel overwhelming. Carepool offers a reliable solution that bridges the gap:
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Less stress: No more last-minute scrambling or worrying about canceled rides.
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Better communication: Families can rest easier knowing drivers are trained to support seniors and people with disabilities.
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Confidence in care: Riders feel more secure, which reduces anxiety about leaving the house or attending appointments.
Looking Ahead
This partnership between Metro Mobility and Carepool is about more than just convenience. It’s about dignity, independence, and family peace of mind. By combining the reliability of Metro Mobility with the flexibility of same-day service, this new option is helping families across the Twin Cities feel supported and empowered.
If you or a loved one is a certified Metro Mobility rider, you can begin using Carepool today by calling 612-284-5204 or by downloading the Carepool app once it launches.
Transportation should never be a barrier to independence. With Carepool and Metro Mobility working together, seniors and people with disabilities can get where they need to go—safely, comfortably, and with care.