Direct Call-to-Ride Service for Uber
For seniors who prefer not to use a smartphone or an app, Uber offers a direct phone service called Call to Ride. This toll-free number allows a person to speak with an Uber representative who can book a trip for them. This method bridges the technology gap and ensures reliable transportation is just a phone call away.
How to use Uber's Call to Ride
- Call the Toll-Free Number: To request a ride, dial 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237).
- Provide Trip Details: An Uber team member will guide you through setting up an account if you don't have one and will ask for your pick-up and drop-off locations.
- Get Confirmation via Text: You will need a phone capable of receiving text messages. The system will send you a text with the driver's name, car model, license plate number, and estimated time of arrival. You will get another text when your driver arrives.
- Confirm Your Ride: For safety, always check that the vehicle and driver details match the information in your text message before entering the car.
Important Details About the Call-to-Ride Service
This service has specific hours of operation (typically 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM ET) and is for ride requests only, not for general customer support. All payments are cashless, requiring a credit or debit card on file. An agent will help you add this payment method when you set up your account.
Using Uber Through Third-Party Concierge Services
Another excellent option for seniors who do not use a smartphone is to use a third-party service like GoGoGrandparent. These services act as an intermediary, handling all the logistics of booking and monitoring the ride on the senior's behalf.
How GoGoGrandparent Works
GoGoGrandparent connects seniors to Uber and Lyft drivers without needing an app. A key benefit is the 24/7 human monitoring of all trips, offering extra peace of mind for both the rider and their family members.
- Call the Service: Dial GoGoGrandparent's toll-free number, 1-855-464-6872, to speak with an operator or use a simple phone menu for pre-programmed destinations.
- Request a Ride: The operator handles the entire booking process, including communicating any special needs, such as help with a folding walker.
- Pay for the Ride: The service charges a small concierge fee in addition to the standard Uber fare, which is billed to a credit card on file.
Simplified Uber App for Seniors
For older adults who are comfortable with some technology, Uber has introduced a "Senior Account" with a simplified app experience called "Simple Mode". This mode features larger text, bigger buttons, and a more streamlined interface, making it less overwhelming to use.
Benefits of a Senior Account with Simple Mode
- Easier to Use: The app's design reduces clutter and makes navigation simpler.
- Access to Savings: Eligible medical trips may be covered by a Medicare Advantage or other health benefits card that can be added to the account.
- Saved Locations: Easily book rides to frequently visited places like the doctor's office or grocery store with just a few taps.
Family Profile and Caregiver Features
Family members can also help coordinate rides for their elderly relatives through the Uber app's Family Profile and Caregiver features. This allows caregivers to book, manage, and pay for a loved one's rides from their own smartphone, regardless of location.
How Family Profiles Enhance Senior Mobility
- Remote Ride Booking: A caregiver can request a ride on behalf of the senior, even if they are in a different city.
- Live Trip Tracking: The family organizer can track the ride in real-time, receiving updates on the driver's arrival and the trip's progress, which provides added safety and peace of mind.
- Payment Management: The caregiver can manage and pay for the senior's rides using their own or the senior's stored payment method.
Alternatives to Uber for Senior Transportation
While Uber offers flexible options, it's beneficial to be aware of other transportation services tailored for seniors. The best choice depends on location, mobility needs, and budget.
Comparison of Senior Transportation Options
| Feature | Uber/Uber Assist | GoGoGrandparent | Local Senior Centers | Volunteer Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Booking Method | App, Web, or Phone (Call to Ride) | Phone call (24/7) | Phone call, reservation required | Varies; often phone call |
| Vehicle Type | Standard sedans, SUVs, wheelchair-accessible (WAV) | Standard Uber/Lyft vehicles | Shuttles, vans | Volunteer's personal vehicle |
| Assistance Level | Driver assistance (Uber Assist) | Live operator communication with driver | Standard pickup/drop-off | Often includes door-through-door aid |
| Coverage Area | Nationwide (availability varies) | Nationwide (Uber/Lyft areas) | Localized | Localized to specific communities |
| Typical Cost | Standard fare; upfront pricing | Standard fare + concierge fee | Low-cost or free | Free |
| Ideal for... | Tech-savvy seniors or those with caregiver support | Seniors without smartphones who need assistance | Group transport to/from a center | Seniors needing low-cost, high-assistance rides |
Ensuring Safety When Using Rideshare Services
For seniors using rideshare services, especially without an app, certain safety practices are important to follow:
- Confirm Driver Information: When using Call to Ride, the text message confirmation includes the driver's name, car make, model, and license plate. Always verify this information before getting into the car.
- Share Trip Details: If a family member manages the account, they can track the trip's status in real-time for added security.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it is always okay to cancel the ride and call for another one. Your safety is the priority.
Conclusion
Senior independence is supported by reliable transportation. Whether through Uber's direct Call to Ride service, the simplified app experience of a Senior Account, the assistance of a Family Profile, or the specialized support of a third-party service like GoGoGrandparent, there are multiple avenues for older adults to access convenient transportation. These solutions empower seniors to maintain active, healthy lifestyles by ensuring they can get where they need to go, with or without a smartphone. Exploring the options available can help find the best fit for individual needs and comfort levels.
Visit the official Uber accessibility page for more information
