Using Your Own Account to Book a Ride for Your Mom
One of the simplest ways to arrange transportation is to use your personal Uber app to book a ride for her. This method is ideal for one-off trips, appointments, or for older adults who prefer not to use a smartphone. Here's how it works:
How to book a guest ride
- Open the Uber app on your phone.
- Enter her pickup location. Tap the 'Where to?' box and either type in her address or use the map to pinpoint her location. It's important to set the correct pickup spot, not your own.
- Tap the drop-down menu above the address box where your name is displayed.
- Select 'For someone else.' You can choose a contact from your address book or enter her phone number manually.
- Enter her destination. After selecting her name, input the final destination. This ensures the driver knows where she needs to go.
- Confirm the ride. You will receive the trip details, and your mom will get a text message with a link to track the driver, vehicle information, and estimated time of arrival. This is a crucial safety step for her, as she will know exactly who to expect.
What the rider receives
Your mom will get text messages with all the important ride details, even if she doesn't have the Uber app installed. This includes:
- The driver's name and contact information.
- The car's make, model, and license plate number.
- A link to track the ride in real-time.
Setting Up an Uber Family Profile for Ongoing Needs
For a more permanent solution, creating an Uber Family Profile is a great option. This allows your mom to request her own rides while you manage the payment and receive ride updates. It promotes her independence while giving you peace of mind.
How to create a Family Profile
- Open the Uber app and go to 'Account.'
- Tap 'Settings,' then scroll down and select 'Family.'
- Tap 'Add member' and choose your mom from your contacts to send her an invitation. She must have her own Uber account to accept the invitation.
- Manage payments. As the Family Organizer, you control the default payment method for the profile, so all ride costs are automatically charged to your card. Your mom's personal card information remains private.
Benefits of a Family Profile
- Independence: Your mom can request rides whenever she wants, without needing you to coordinate.
- Security: You can track her trips in real-time and contact the driver if needed.
- Convenience: All payment is centralized, so there's no fumbling with cash or cards during the ride.
Exploring Uber's Dedicated Senior Features
Uber has recently introduced features specifically designed to improve the experience for older adults. These features streamline the process and offer a simpler interface.
Uber's Simple Mode
Simple Mode offers a larger text and icon interface, making it less overwhelming for users who find complex apps challenging. This can be enabled directly within your mom's app settings after her account is set up, whether independently or through a Family Profile.
Uber Caregiver and Uber Health
For more complex care situations, Uber has offerings under Uber Health and the Uber Caregiver feature. This allows a designated caregiver to coordinate rides and deliveries and pay using health benefits. For eligible medical transportation, this can be a huge advantage. It provides insights into benefits, helps manage appointments, and reduces out-of-pocket costs.
Comparing Uber Options for Senior Transportation
Choosing the right option depends on your mom's comfort level with technology and how frequently she needs rides. This table compares the different Uber methods.
| Feature | Booking via Your App | Uber Family Profile | Uber Caregiver | Alternative Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ideal For | Occasional rides, one-time needs | Regular, independent riders | Healthcare coordination, health benefits | Non-smartphone users, specialized needs |
| Technology Level | Requires caregiver's smartphone | Requires senior's smartphone (simplified) | Caregiver and recipient use app | Phone call access, no app needed |
| Payment | Paid by caregiver's account | Paid by Family Profile organizer | Paid via eligible health benefits | Varies; sometimes with concierge fee |
| Coordination | Managed entirely by caregiver | Senior requests, organizer tracks | Managed by caregiver via app | Via phone, possibly concierge service |
| Real-Time Tracking | Yes, via caregiver's app | Yes, via both accounts | Yes, via caregiver's app | Varies by service, can include live monitoring |
| Safety Features | Standard Uber safety features | Standard Uber safety features + family tracking | Enhanced safety features, specialized support | Varies by service, can include live monitoring |
Alternatives to Uber for Senior Rides
If Uber is not the right fit, other services and options are available:
- Lyft: Also offers a family profile option and, in some areas, has a service called Lyft Silver specifically designed for older adults.
- GoGoGrandparent: A service that bridges the tech gap, allowing seniors to call a simple phone number from any phone to arrange a ride. It uses a network of rideshare providers like Uber and Lyft.
- Community Transportation Services: Many local senior centers, nonprofits, and government programs offer low-cost or free transportation for older adults.
- Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Some health insurance plans, including Medicare Advantage, cover transportation to and from medical appointments.
The Final Step: Setting Expectations and Ensuring Safety
No matter which method you choose, it's vital to have a conversation with your mom to set expectations and ensure her safety. Walk her through the process and explain what to expect. Confirming the driver's details—such as name, photo, and license plate—is a critical step before she gets into the car. Sharing her trip status with you or another family member can also add an extra layer of security. This preparation will help build her confidence and make the experience a positive one.
For additional insights on supporting an aging loved one, consider resources like the National Council on Aging, which offers guidance on transportation and other key aspects of senior well-being. Visit the National Council on Aging.
