For over 25 years, this free service has enabled older people to have greater mobility and social contacts – volunteer drivers wanted
The senior citizen bus in Weiterstadt is an important support service for many older people in their daily lives. For more than 25 years, this free service has been taking people who can no longer drive themselves or whose mobility is limited to shopping trips. But the journeys offer far more than just transportation: they create opportunities for encounters, foster social connections, and help maintain independence in old age.
The senior citizens' bus runs every Tuesday and Thursday in Weiterstadt. Passengers are picked up at designated stops and taken to various shopping facilities.
Personal attention instead of an anonymous bus ride
What makes the senior citizens' bus special is the personal interaction between passengers and volunteer drivers. Many of the passengers have known each other for a long time, keep in touch by phone, and keep each other informed about planned trips.
The atmosphere is correspondingly friendly. Passengers particularly appreciate the helpfulness of the volunteers. "They are great drivers – every single one of them," is one of the positive comments.
The drivers make sure their passengers are well and support them beyond the actual journey if needed.
Heavy shopping bags and trolleys are stowed in the trunk. The volunteers help with getting out of the car and with carrying the shopping to the front door.
Additional stopovers can also be arranged easily where possible.
Shopping and spending time together
Possible shopping destinations include Aldi, Kaufland, and Edeka. The selection of shops and stores will be tailored to the needs of the passengers.
Occasionally, a group trip for coffee may also be on the agenda. This makes the senior citizens' bus a place for socializing.
Especially for older people whose mobility is limited, the regular trips offer an opportunity to meet other people and participate in social life.
Over time, personal relationships and mutual trust develop between the passengers and the volunteer drivers.
Volunteer drivers wanted
To ensure that the senior citizens' bus can continue to operate reliably in the future, more volunteer drivers are being sought.
This is aimed at people who enjoy driving, like interacting with others, and want to support older people in their daily lives.
New passengers are also welcome. Anyone wishing to use the senior citizens' bus or interested in volunteering can contact the Weiterstadt Senior Citizens' Office for more information.
The most important information
- Offer: Free senior citizen bus in Weiterstadt
- Travel days: Tuesday and Thursday
- Pick-up: At designated stops
- Target group: Especially older people with limited mobility
- Destinations: Shopping facilities in Weiterstadt, for example Aldi, Kaufland and Edeka
- Cost: Free
- Support: Assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle and with transporting shopping bags
- Volunteering: More drivers are needed
- Information and registration: Senior Citizens' Office Weiterstadt
(WEITERSTADT – RED/PSW)
