How do I request an Uber for a senior?

Oct 28, 2025 3 min read •

senior care Healthy Aging Transportation

According to a 2023 study by the Pew Research Center, roughly 7% of adults aged 65 and older use ride-sharing services like Uber, a number that is growing steadily. But what if your loved one doesn't have the app? This guide will show you exactly how do I request an Uber for a senior, ensuring their ride is safe, easy, and stress-free.

Quick Summary

Booking an Uber for an elderly family member is straightforward and can be done from your own account. It involves entering their pickup and drop-off locations, confirming the ride, and sharing trip details with them for a safe and coordinated journey. You can also specify any specific needs in the app.

Key Points

Use Your Account: You can book a ride for a senior from your own Uber app by simply changing the pickup location.
Select the Right Vehicle: Choose a larger vehicle like Uber XL if the senior uses a walker, or a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) for special needs.
Provide Clear Instructions: Communicate details about the senior's mobility or location in the message to the driver.
Share Trip Details: Use the 'Share Trip Status' feature to send real-time tracking information to the senior or another caregiver.
Consider Scheduling in Advance: For important appointments, use the 'Schedule' feature to book a ride ahead of time, ensuring timely transport.
Know Your Alternatives: Uber may not always be the best fit. Research local transportation services for seniors, which may offer more tailored assistance.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Request an Uber for a Senior

Requesting an Uber for a loved one is simple and provides peace of mind. Here's a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of the process, including crucial tips to ensure a successful trip.

1. Open the Uber App and Set the Location

First, open the Uber app on your smartphone. The app's main screen will show a map and a "Where to?" search bar. It's crucial to set the correct pickup location, which might be different from your current one. Tap the location pin or manually enter the senior's address. Double-check that the address is accurate to avoid any confusion for the driver.

2. Enter Your Senior's Destination

Next, enter the final destination in the "Where to?" field. If it's a doctor's office or a family member's home, you can save these locations for future convenience. This is a great time-saver for regular appointments.

3. Choose the Right Vehicle Type

Uber offers several vehicle options. When requesting a ride for a senior, consider their specific needs. Here's a comparison to help you choose:


Vehicle Type	Considerations for Seniors	Best For
UberX	Standard, affordable option. May not accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.	Independent seniors without mobility issues.
Uber XL	Larger vehicle, more space for passengers and cargo. Good for walkers or small wheelchairs.	Seniors traveling with a companion or with mobility aids.
WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle)	Specifically designed for wheelchair users. Must be requested via the Uber app, availability varies.	Seniors using wheelchairs or scooters.
Comfort	Newer vehicles with extra legroom and highly-rated drivers.	Seniors who prioritize comfort and a smoother ride.

4. Provide Specific Instructions for the Driver

Before you confirm the trip, tap on the driver's profile picture or the trip details to add a message. This is a critical step for a senior's ride. You can include important information such as:

"My mother, Jane, will be waiting on the front porch."
"Please wait a moment as she may move a little slowly."
"Her phone number is [phone number] if you need to reach her."

5. Confirm the Trip and Share the Details

Once you have selected the vehicle and added notes, tap "Confirm" to request the ride. Once a driver accepts, you will be able to see their name, vehicle model, and license plate number. Immediately share this information with the senior. You can use the built-in "Share Trip Status" feature in the Uber app, which sends a text message with a link showing the driver's real-time location.

6. Consider Additional Features for Convenience and Safety

Scheduled Rides: If the senior has a medical appointment, you can schedule a ride in advance to ensure a driver is available. This reduces stress and waiting time. To schedule, tap the car and clock icon on the main screen.
Uber Connect: For errands or sending forgotten items, Uber Connect allows you to send packages. It's not for a person, but it can be useful for transporting things like medications.
Cashless Payment: Uber is a cashless service. Since the ride is charged to your account, you don't need to worry about the senior handling payment. Ensure your payment method is up-to-date.

7. Following the Ride: From Pickup to Drop-off

During the ride, you can monitor the trip's progress in your app. This is especially helpful if you need to coordinate with someone at the drop-off location. After the trip ends, the app will ask you to rate the driver. This feedback helps improve the service and ensures other riders can benefit from your experience.

8. Alternative Services for Seniors

For seniors with specific needs, other services might be a better fit. Some non-profit organizations and senior centers offer transportation services. Some cities also have subsidized taxi programs. These alternatives can be particularly helpful for those with significant mobility issues or for whom Uber's on-demand model is not suitable.

Conclusion

Arranging an Uber for a senior can be a seamless and reliable way to help them stay independent and mobile. By following these steps and providing clear instructions, you can ensure a safe, comfortable, and stress-free journey for your loved one. This simple act of assistance can greatly improve their quality of life and give you peace of mind. For more information on Uber’s accessibility features, visit the official Uber Accessibility page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can easily request an Uber for someone else using your own Uber account. Just enter their current location as the pickup address and their destination. The fare will be charged to your payment method on file.

Once a driver accepts the ride, you can send them a message directly through the app. In the message, you can specify that the ride is for your senior relative, mention their name, and add any specific instructions, like waiting a moment for them to get to the car.

Uber offers Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) in many areas. When requesting a ride, you can select the 'Access' or 'WAV' option. Be aware that availability may vary depending on your location.

Yes, Uber allows you to schedule a ride up to 30 days in advance. This is an excellent feature for seniors with medical appointments or scheduled events. To do this, tap the car and clock icon on the main screen of the app.

After booking the ride, you can use the 'Share Trip Status' feature. This will send a text message to the senior's phone with a link that they can open in a web browser, showing the driver's name, vehicle details, and real-time location.

Drivers are not obligated to wait for extended periods, but you can add a note explaining that the passenger may need a few extra moments. For scheduled rides, the driver is often more prepared to wait briefly. For additional time, there may be a small waiting fee.

Since the trip details are sent via text message, the senior only needs a basic mobile phone capable of receiving and opening a text with a link. You can also simply relay the driver's name, car model, and license plate number over the phone for confirmation.

To prevent a potential scam, instruct the senior to confirm the driver's name, vehicle model, and license plate number with the information you shared via text message. They should never get into a car that doesn't match the details you provided.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.