How to Use Uber for Seniors: A Simple Guide for Safe Rides

When you can no longer drive yourself, getting to a doctor's appointment or a friend's birthday shouldn't hinge on someone else's schedule. For many older adults, Uber fills that gap, putting a reliable ride a few taps or a phone call away.

Uber has several service levels tailored to different needs. UberX accommodates up to four passengers, while UberXL works for larger groups. UberComfort offers newer vehicles with extra legroom. UberASSIST, designed specifically for seniors and people with disabilities, pairs riders with trained drivers who help with mobility devices like folding wheelchairs, walkers, and scooters. The door-to-door service eliminates the need to walk to a transit stop.

Seniors without smartphones can still access Uber. They can book through a computer or tablet, ask family members to arrange rides, or use GoGoGrandparent, which connects older adults to Uber drivers by phone without requiring an app. A simple phone call is all it takes.

Using Uber safely comes down to a handful of basics: setting up an account, booking a ride, and leaning on safety features like real-time trip tracking that family members can monitor. There are also ways to save money and other transportation options worth knowing about.

Getting started with Uber for seniors

Setting up an Uber account can feel like a lot if smartphones aren't your thing. Take it one step at a time and it's very doable.

Create an Uber account step-by-step

Having a family member help with the initial setup makes the process easier and builds your confidence.

The basic steps are:

1. Download the Uber app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android), or go to Uber's website on a computer to set up an account.
2. Open the app and tap "Sign Up." Enter your name, phone number, and preferred language.
3. Verify your phone number by entering the 4-digit code Uber texts you.
4. Add your email address so you receive ride receipts and account updates.
5. Create a password with at least 6 characters.
6. Turn on notifications so you get real-time updates about your driver's location and arrival.

If you don't have a smartphone, call 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) from any phone that receives text messages. An Uber representative will help you set up an account and book rides.

The Uber Caregiver feature, launching in summer 2024, will let family members arrange transportation for their loved ones. Both can track the ride and message the driver.

Set up payment methods securely

Before booking rides, you'll need to add a payment method:

1. Tap your profile icon, then "Wallet."
2. Tap "Add Payment Method" and choose from these options:
   • Credit cards
   • Debit cards
   • PayPal (in some regions)
   • Direct Express (Social Security's prepaid debit card)
3. Enter the card number, expiration date, CVV code, and billing ZIP code.

Uber requires a valid payment method before you can request a ride. For security, have a trusted family member help you set this up and check it periodically.

Having family help you through the entire setup process makes it less stressful and helps you feel more confident using the app.

Double-check all your personal and payment information before finalizing your account to avoid problems when you book your first ride.

If you live in an assisted living facility, your residence may offer Uber Business, which could provide different payment arrangements depending on facility policy.

How to book a ride using the Uber app

Once your account is set up, booking a ride comes down to a few taps, whether you're on a smartphone or a tablet. Don't worry if ridesharing is new to you; the app walks you through each step.

Enter your pickup and drop-off locations

The Uber app usually identifies your current location as your starting point. Here's how to book:

1. Open the Uber app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Tap "Where to?" at the top.
3. Type your destination address or location name.
4. Check that your pickup location is correct.

If the app misidentifies your pickup location, type a new address or drag the pin on the map. The app marks restricted pickup zones so you can avoid them. For places you visit regularly, save them in "Saved Places" for faster bookings later.

Choose the right ride type (UberX, Uber Assist, etc.)

After entering your locations, the app shows your options at the bottom of the screen:

• UberX: Standard service for up to four passengers; usually the cheapest option.
• UberXL: Larger vehicles for up to six passengers.
• Uber Assist: Designed for seniors and people with disabilities who need extra help.

Uber Assist drivers are highly rated and trained to provide extra assistance. The service is designed for older adults, people with service animals, those with visual or hearing impairments, and riders who use foldable mobility devices. It costs the same as UberX with no extra charge.

The app shows the estimated fare and arrival time for each option before you confirm.

Track your driver in real-time

Once you request a ride, Uber tracks your journey:

1. You see your driver's name, photo, vehicle details, and license plate number.
2. A map shows where your driver is and the route they're taking.
3. You get notifications when your driver is arriving.

The "Share Trip Status" feature adds security for seniors and families. You can share your trip details with up to five trusted contacts:

1. Swipe up on the app screen after you request your ride.
2. Tap "Share Trip Status."
3. Select contacts to receive your trip information.

They'll get a text with a link showing your driver's info and a live map from pickup to destination. They don't need the Uber app to see it.

Before getting in any car, verify it's the right one by checking the license plate, car model, and driver photo against what's shown in your app.

Using Uber without a smartphone

No smartphone? No problem. Plenty of older riders would rather make a simple phone call, and Uber works just fine that way. You have a few options to choose from.

Call a ride using GoGoGrandparent or Arrive

GoGoGrandparent is a service that connects seniors to Uber drivers by phone. You can request rides in several ways:

1. Call 1-855-464-6872 (24/7 toll-free) to speak with an operator who will arrange your Uber.
2. Use their simple phone menu: Press 1 to get picked up at home, Press 2 to return from your last location, or Press 6 to talk to an operator about other destinations.

GoGoGrandparent monitors your trip from start to finish, giving peace of mind to both you and your family. The service takes credit cards, debit cards, and Direct Express (Social Security's prepaid debit card).

Arrive offers similar service with its own features:

• Call 1-866-626-9879 to have an Arrive concierge dispatch a car.
• Your saved destinations load faster for repeat bookings.
• Arrive typically costs less than a taxi, and you don't pay the driver directly.
• Arrive charges a monthly membership fee and may add after-hours fees beyond the ride cost.

Both services connect you with a real person instead of forcing you to navigate an app.

Book a ride from a computer or tablet

If you're comfortable with a computer or tablet but not a smartphone, you can book through Uber's website:

1. Go to uber.com/go in any web browser (or m.uber.com for mobile).
2. Log in with your phone number or create an account.
3. Enter your pickup location (allow location access or type it manually).
4. Add your destination.
5. Select your ride type and confirm.

This works on any internet-connected device: laptops, desktops, or tablets. You'll get email receipts and can download them later at riders.uber.com.

You can also call 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) from any phone that receives text messages. An Uber representative will help you set up an account and request rides.

These alternatives give seniors the convenience, safety, and independence Uber offers, even without owning a smartphone.

Safety and accessibility tips for seniors

Rideshare safety is worth a few minutes of your attention. Uber builds in features that protect riders, and several of them help older adults who need a little extra care.

Verify your driver before entering the car

Always verify your driver before getting in. The app provides several ways to confirm you have the right car:

After you're matched with a driver, the app shows their name, vehicle make and model, and license plate. You also get a notification with these details.

Safety experts suggest this approach instead of just asking "Are you my Uber?":

1. Stand a few feet from the vehicle.
2. Ask the driver to confirm your name first.
3. Check the license plate against what's in your app.

Uber also offers PIN verification. You'll receive a unique 4-digit code for each ride, and the driver must enter it in their app before the trip can start.

Use Uber's trip sharing feature for peace of mind

Trip sharing lets family members monitor your journey in real-time and know where you are. It includes driver information and your estimated arrival time, giving everyone peace of mind.

To share your trip:

1. Tap the blue safety shield icon on the map during your trip.
2. Select "Share your trip."
3. Choose contacts from your phone or copy a shareable link.

Your contacts don't need the Uber app. They'll get a link with the driver's info and a live map showing your route from pickup to destination.

Research shows that rideshare services can help older adults maintain independence and activity levels after they stop driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends safe transportation options as a way for seniors to stay engaged and independent as they age.

Uber uses rider verification badges to help drivers identify verified passengers and build trust between riders and drivers.

Saving money and exploring alternatives

Ride costs pile up fast on a fixed income. A few habits, plus a couple of programs most people never hear about, can keep them down.

Check for local senior ride programs

Many communities offer transportation options beyond commercial rideshare.

Volunteer transportation programs provide free or low-cost door-to-door rides through local volunteers. The National Volunteer Transportation Center maintains a directory by state on their website. These programs serve seniors with limited transportation options in their area.

Many seniors qualify for Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) through Medicare. This government program offers free or low-cost rides to medical appointments. Contact your state's Department of Health to learn about eligibility and how to apply.

Healthcare providers, senior centers, and community organizations are partnering with Uber to offer reduced fares or free rides to eligible seniors. Many of these partnerships focus on transportation to medical appointments, helping older adults stay independent and get the care they need.

Use Uber Reserve to lock in lower fares

Uber Reserve lets you schedule rides up to 90 days ahead and lock in your price. No surge pricing surprises.

You book the ride and know the fare upfront. Standard on-demand rides can cost more during busy times, but Uber Reserve sets your price when you book. This gives you budget certainty.

The service includes extended wait times, 5 minutes for Economy rides and 15 minutes for Premium, at no extra charge. You can get to the car at your own pace without rushing, reducing stress and the risk of falls.

For airport pickups, Uber Reserve tracks your incoming flight and makes sure a driver is waiting, even if there are delays. This is especially helpful when traveling to places where finding a rideshare might be harder.

The best service depends on where you live, your budget, and what works for you. Local senior centers and eldercare.acl.gov can help you find transportation options in your area.

Conclusion

Uber helps seniors stay independent by offering transportation that fits their mobility needs. You can set up an account multiple ways and book rides without a smartphone. The app includes safety features like driver verification and trip sharing that reassure both you and your family.

Uber Assist serves older adults who need help with mobility devices. It lets you go to appointments, social events, and run errands without depending on family members' schedules.

If you're on a fixed income, you have options to manage costs. Volunteer transportation programs, Non-Emergency Medical Transportation through Medicare, and Uber Reserve's locked-in rates offer alternatives. Services like GoGoGrandparent work for people uncomfortable with technology.

Reliable transportation is what keeps you in the thick of things, from lunch dates to doctor's visits, long after you've handed over the car keys. With a little help getting set up, Uber becomes a dependable way to stay active in your community, safely and on your own terms.