How do seniors use Uber? A comprehensive guide to ride-sharing for older adults

By 2030, nearly one in six people worldwide will be aged 60 or older, underscoring the growing need for accessible transportation options. This guide explains exactly how do seniors use Uber, detailing account setup, safety features, and alternatives designed to help maintain independence and connectivity.

Quick Summary

Seniors can access Uber through a streamlined app experience called Simple Mode, a Senior Account within a family profile for shared management, or by using a phone-based service for those without smartphones. These options prioritize ease-of-use, flexible payment, and crucial safety features to ensure reliable transportation for older adults.

Key Points

• Simple Mode: Uber's Simple Mode offers larger text and simplified booking for seniors using the app independently, reducing tech-related frustration.

• Senior Accounts: Family members can set up a Senior Account under a Family Profile to manage bookings, track rides, and handle payments for their loved one.

• No Smartphone Required: Services like GoGoGrandparent and Uber's dedicated phone line allow seniors to book rides with a simple phone call, bridging the digital divide.

• Enhanced Safety Features: Key safety measures for seniors include verifying the driver's details, sharing trip status with family, and using the in-app 911 button for emergencies.

• Flexible Payment: Payment can be handled through a family member's card or, for eligible medical trips, a Medicare Advantage health benefits card can be linked to the account.

• Accessible Ride Options: For those needing assistance with mobility devices, Uber Assist provides specially trained drivers to help ensure a comfortable and safe ride.

Getting Started: Options for Senior Riders

Uber offers several ways for seniors to access their ride-sharing services, recognizing that not all older adults are equally tech-savvy. The primary methods include using the dedicated Senior Account within a family profile, enabling Simple Mode for an independent but simplified experience, or using a third-party, phone-based service for those who prefer not to use a smartphone.

Setting Up a Senior Account and Simple Mode

Creating a Senior Account within a Family Profile

For seniors who have family members who are already Uber users, creating a Senior Account within a Family Profile can be a great option. A family organizer can manage the account, pay for rides, and track trips, providing peace of mind to everyone involved. Here's how it works:

1. Invitation: The family organizer sends an invitation to the senior through the Uber app.
2. Acceptance: The senior receives a text message with a link to download the app and accept the invitation.
3. Setup: Once the senior accepts, their account is added to the Family Profile and automatically set to Simple Mode.

Enabling Simple Mode Independently

If an older adult wants to use Uber independently without a Family Profile, they can activate Simple Mode themselves. This feature streamlines the app interface by using larger text and icons, and simplifying the booking flow.

• Navigate to Settings: From the main Uber app screen, tap the "Account" icon in the bottom right corner.
• Accessibility Menu: Select "Settings," and then tap "Accessibility."
• Toggle Simple Mode: Find "Simple mode" and toggle it on or off as desired.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Booking an Uber Ride

Using Uber, especially with Simple Mode enabled, is designed to be straightforward. The process involves just a few key steps.

1. Open the App: Launch the Uber app on your smartphone.
2. Enter Destination: Tap the "Where to?" box. You can manually enter an address, or, for even easier booking, select a pre-saved location like "Home" or "Doctor's Office".
3. Choose Your Ride: Uber will display different ride options, such as UberX (standard car) or Uber Assist (specialized assistance for those with mobility issues). Choose the one that best fits your needs.
4. Confirm Pickup: After selecting a ride, the app will ask you to confirm your pickup location. If your phone's GPS isn't precise, you can adjust the pin on the map.
5. Await Your Driver: The app will show your driver's name, car make and model, and license plate number. You can track their arrival on the map.

Essential Safety Features and Best Practices

Safety is a primary concern for all riders, and seniors should take extra precautions when using ridesharing services. Uber offers several built-in features to enhance security.

• Verify Your Ride: Always confirm the driver's name, the car's make and model, and the license plate number before entering the vehicle. Never get in a car if the information doesn't match the app.
• Trip Sharing: Use the "Share Trip Status" feature to let a trusted family member or friend track your journey in real-time. This provides peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
• On-Trip Safety: The Uber app has a Safety Toolkit, including a feature to call 911 directly from the app in an emergency.
• Sit in the Back Seat: Sitting in the back seat creates distance between you and the driver and ensures you can exit safely from either side of the vehicle.

Alternatives for Non-Smartphone Users

For older adults who do not have a smartphone or are not comfortable using apps, there are still excellent ways to access Uber's services.

GoGoGrandparent

GoGoGrandparent is a specialized service that allows seniors to book Uber rides with a simple phone call.

1. Call the Service: Dial 1-855-464-6872.
2. Follow Prompts: Use the automated phone menu to request a ride to a saved location (like "Home") or press 0 to speak with an operator for more complex needs.
3. Confirmation: The service books the Uber on your behalf and provides trip updates over the phone.

Uber's Call-in Service

Uber also offers its own phone-based service in some areas, allowing seniors to call 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) from any phone to request a ride.

Comparing Uber Options for Seniors

Feature	Standard Uber App	Simple Mode	GoGoGrandparent (Phone Service)
Requires Smartphone?	Yes	Yes	No
App Complexity	Standard	Reduced (Large text, simple flow)	N/A (Phone-based)
Family Oversight	Yes, via Family Profile	Yes, via Family Profile	Yes, via shared account
Mobility Assistance	Uber Assist available	Uber Assist available	Specific requests handled
Booking Process	App-based	Streamlined App-based	Simple phone call
Cost	Standard fare	Standard fare	Standard fare + concierge fee

Financial Considerations and Payment Flexibility

Uber offers flexible payment solutions that can be beneficial for seniors. For instance, payment can be managed through a Family Profile, where a family member pays for the rides. Additionally, some Medicare Advantage plans with transportation benefits can be linked to the account to cover eligible medical appointments.

How to Add a Health Benefits Card

• Access Wallet: Tap the "Account" icon and go to the "Wallet" section.
• Add Payment: Select "Add Payment Method" and follow the instructions to add your health benefits card.

Conclusion

Maintaining independence is a crucial aspect of healthy aging, and accessible transportation is a key part of that autonomy. Whether through a simplified app interface like Simple Mode, family-assisted Senior Accounts, or phone-based services for non-smartphone users, Uber provides a reliable way for older adults to get where they need to go. By taking advantage of these tools and following the safety guidelines, seniors can continue to enjoy the freedom of independent travel with confidence.

For more resources on independent aging and mobility, visit the Administration for Community Living website at https://www.acl.gov/.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Uber's Simple Mode and how do seniors use it?

Uber's Simple Mode is a setting within the app that simplifies the interface for users. It features larger text and icons, a minimal home screen, and fewer buttons, making it easier for seniors to navigate and book rides. It can be toggled on or off in the accessibility settings.

Can I book an Uber for a senior without them having a smartphone?

Yes, you can. For seniors without a smartphone, you can use the Family Profile feature to book and pay for rides remotely. Alternatively, third-party services like GoGoGrandparent allow them to request an Uber via a phone call, or they can use Uber's dedicated call-in service in certain areas.

Is Uber Assist available for seniors needing mobility assistance?

Yes, Uber Assist is an option specifically designed for riders with mobility issues. The drivers who offer this service are specially trained to provide assistance, such as helping with folding wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers, making it a reliable choice for seniors.

How can a family member pay for a senior's Uber rides?

By creating a Family Profile and inviting the senior, a family organizer can automatically pay for their rides using their own default payment method. This simplifies the financial aspect for the senior and provides a seamless billing experience.

How do seniors ensure their safety when using Uber?

Seniors can enhance their safety by following a few key steps. Always confirm the driver's photo, car model, and license plate number match the app details. Use the in-app "Share Trip Status" feature to let a trusted contact track your ride. Sitting in the back seat is also recommended.

Can I use a health benefits card to pay for medical rides with Uber?

In many cases, yes. If a senior's Medicare Advantage plan offers transportation benefits, they can add their health benefits card to the Uber account. Uber can then automatically apply this card for eligible medical trips, simplifying the payment process.

What is the benefit of using a phone-based service like GoGoGrandparent?

GoGoGrandparent offers a significant advantage for seniors who are not comfortable with smartphone apps. By simply calling a phone number, they can book a ride without needing to navigate a mobile interface. It's a reliable alternative that ensures accessibility for all.