Inspiration
Watching my mom struggle with unreliable transit options after turning 68 sparked this project. She wanted to keep going to doctor’s appointments, grocery runs, and community outings—but existing apps were too clunky, small, or unsafe. I knew there had to be a way to build something centered on her needs: clarity, safety, and respect for independence.
What it does
Senior Transportation is a web app for older adults (65+) that simplifies booking rides—on-demand, scheduled, medical, or group outings. It prioritizes accessibility (large text, high contrast, big buttons), safety (24/7 support, verified drivers, one-touch SOS), and peace of mind (fixed pricing, real-time tracking for caregivers).
How we built it
We started with user interviews with seniors and caregivers to map core needs, then designed a UI system focused on readability and ease of use. We built the frontend with React/TypeScript, integrated Google Maps API for location services, and used Firebase for real-time data sync (ride statuses, GPS tracking). Twilio API powers emergency alerts, and AWS hosts the platform for reliability.
Challenges we ran into
The biggest hurdle was balancing accessibility with functionality—e.g., making text large enough without cluttering the interface, or ensuring the SOS button was prominent but not alarming. We also had to refine GPS tracking to be accurate but not intrusive, and test localization (English/Spanish) to feel natural for diverse users.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
We created a platform where every interactive element meets 44×44px touch targets, all text has 4.5:1 color contrast, and users can book a ride in 2 taps max. Caregivers love the view-only real-time tracking, and seniors tell us the app “feels made for them, not just adapted.”
What we learned
Accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s the foundation. We also learned how critical trust is for older users: verified driver badges, fixed pricing, and clear safety features matter more than flashy design. Most importantly, we learned to listen first—user feedback reshaped everything from button sizes to notification timing.
What's next for this project
We’re adding voice navigation support for users with limited vision, expanding language options, and testing integrations with local medical clinics to auto-sync appointment reminders. We also plan to roll out a caregiver portal with more granular ride insights (without overstepping privacy) and partner with community centers to expand group outing options.
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