Check out our guide to DoorDash for seniors below to learn some ins and outs of this service.

What Is DoorDash?

DoorDash is a delivery service that lets you order from local restaurants and stores. It was founded in 2013 with a small launch in select locations. However, by 2025, it had grown to be one of the most popular delivery services in the country and is an option for people in most cities.

You can use DoorDash to browse local food options, including restaurant meals, convenience store snacks, and groceries and household items. You can order items from participating locations online and have them delivered to your door the same day — often within minutes.

How Does DoorDash Work?

DoorDash is a third-party platform that connects customers with local businesses. The businesses choose to partner with DoorDash, listing menus and inventory items with DoorDash so customers can order via the app or DoorDash website.

Once you place an order on DoorDash, the business gets the request so it can work on fulfilling it. The delivery request also posts to a network of independent delivery drivers who are called Dashers.

Dashers can pick up orders when they want. A nearby Dasher will select your order and drive to the restaurant or store to get it. They then bring it to your door.

The DoorDash platform keeps you updated. You can usually see where your order is — whether it's being prepared or on the way.

Step-by-Step Guide to DoorDashing Your Dinner or Snack

Ordering with DoorDash is super-easy once you get the hang of it. Follow the steps below to place an order:

1. Download the DoorDash app on a mobile device, or visit the DoorDash site on a computer.
2. Create an account if you don't already have one — you'll need an email address.
3. Enter your address so DoorDash can customize what it shows you — no use salivating over steak tips that are only available three states away.
4. Browse food options via a variety of filters — you can look at specific restaurant menus, check out the closest eats or filter for just pizza or salad options.
5. Select items you want from a local eatery or store and follow the prompts to customize your order.
6. Review your order, select a delivery method (you can get items faster with expedited delivery in some cases) and add a tip for your Dasher.
7. Pay for your order with an online payment method, such as PayPal or a debit or credit card.
8. Track your order as it winds its way directly to your door.

Tips and Considerations When Ordering Via DoorDash

Before you develop a DoorDash habit, there are a few financial and practical considerations. First, DoorDash doesn't deliver your food to you for free. You may pay a delivery fee or slightly higher prices for your food. Most people also add a tip for their Dasher — they don't get paid a whole lot to make those deliveries. Typically, a solid tip will help ensure your order is picked up and carried to you in an expedient fashion.

While DoorDashing is a bit more expensive than picking up your own takeout, you can cut the cost of this convenience with DashPass. This is a subscription that cuts out delivery fees in exchange for a monthly subscription payment. If you DoorDash more than a couple times a month, you may save money with DashPass.

You can also save money by Double Dashing. This happens when you place an order at one place and then follow it with a second order within a certain period of time. The app or site tells you how long you have to Double Dash — usually between 15 and 25 minutes. You won't pay a second delivery fee when you do this, so you might consider DoorDashing dinner and Double Dashing dessert, grocery items or some things from the local drug store.

DoorDash is a convenient and fun way to get delicious meals and treats delivered to your door. Even for residents of the Gardens at Collinwood assisted living community, where amenities include a daily from-scratch special and an always-available menu, the ability to get favorite foods and local cuisine delivered may still be an occasional delight.

Consider trying DoorDash soon. Order a slice of pie or cake from your favorite eat-in bakery, dinner for two from the local Italian place or 3 days' worth of Chinese takeout to get you through a long weekend. Whatever you're in the mood for, DoorDash can probably get it to you today.

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