Uber simplifies ride booking for seniors: How to set up senior accounts
The rideshare company announced senior accounts and ‘Simple mode,’ which both aim to make ride booking more accessible for seniors.
WASHINGTON — Uber is launching a simpler way for older adults to catch rides.
The company on Wednesday announced it has rolled out senior accounts and a simplified in-app setting called “Simple mode” across the United States. The new features aim to make ride booking more accessible for seniors, while giving their loved ones the ability to assist as needed.
Senior accounts are available through Uber’s Family profile, according to the company’s announcement. The setup allows a family organizer to request rides, manage payment methods, and receive real-time trip tracking on behalf of an older adult, who can then use a redesigned version of the Uber app with larger text, fewer buttons, and clear directions.
Senior accounts can also accept Medicare Flex cards as a payment method for eligible trips, such as visits to the doctor or grocery store.
How to set up an Uber senior account
To set up a senior account, a family organizer must invite the older adult user to their Family profile and select the Senior option.
Older riders who prefer to ride without family assistance or a senior account can also enable “Simple mode” from the app’s settings. The simplified layout includes larger icons, saved favorite locations, and a simpler booking process.
To set up “Simple mode,” users can go to account, select settings, tap accessibility and toggle “Simple mode” to on or off.
“These features reflect our dedication to designing technology that meets people where they are and supports mobility at every stage of life,” said Ashu Manohar, Uber’s director of product management.
According to Uber, family organizers and senior account holders do not need to live in the same location. Family organizers can monitor trip progress, contact drivers, and help set or edit destinations from their own devices or location.
“Transportation is one of the biggest barriers to independence as people age,” Silvia Candamil Neirra, Vice President of the Global Initiative on Ageing and Longevity said.
“Solutions like Uber’s senior accounts help break down that barrier by offering a simple and flexible way for older adults to get where they need to go—without always having to rely on others.”
Senior accounts and “Simple mode” are now available across the U.S. and in select cities abroad, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, France and South Africa.
