Uber works the same way for seniors, but the app has features designed to make it easier and safer to use

Uber is a ride-sharing service where you request a car through an app on your phone or computer, and a driver picks you up and takes you to your destination. For seniors, Uber offers the same rides as anyone else, but also has built-in safety tools, a simplified interface option, and the ability to have a trusted family member track your trip in real time. You don't need to own a smartphone — you can book rides on a computer or tablet, or ask someone to book for you.

The main advantage for seniors is that you don't have to call a taxi company or stand on the street waiting. The driver's location appears on your screen as they approach, you know the fare before you get in, and payment happens automatically through the app — no cash or card needed at the end of the ride. For people with mobility issues, Uber also offers Uber Assist (a larger vehicle with extra space) and Uber WAV (wheelchair-accessible vehicles) in some cities.

Key Takeaways

  • You can book an Uber ride through the app on a phone or tablet, or on a computer at uber.com, and a driver will pick you up at your location.
  • Uber's Simplified Interface makes the app easier to read and use, with larger text and fewer buttons to navigate.
  • You can add a trusted family member as an emergency contact who can see your trip in real time and receive a notification when you arrive.
  • Uber Assist and Uber WAV offer larger or wheelchair-accessible vehicles in many cities, though availability and pricing vary by location.
  • Payment is automatic through the app, so you don't handle cash or cards with the driver.

How to set up your Uber account

Download the Uber app on your phone or tablet, or go to uber.com on a computer. You'll need to enter your name, phone number, and email address. Uber will send you a verification code by text or email to confirm your identity. Then add a payment method — a debit card, credit card, or linked bank account. You only need to do this once.

If you don't have a smartphone or prefer not to use one, ask a family member or friend to create an account for you and add their payment method. They can book rides for you and share the trip details. Alternatively, some cities have phone-based booking services through Uber, though availability varies — call 1-833-USE-UBER to ask if your area has this option.

Using the Simplified Interface

Uber's Simplified Interface is designed for people who find the standard app overwhelming. The text is larger, there are fewer buttons on the screen, and the steps to book a ride are more straightforward. To turn it on, open the Uber app, tap your profile icon in the top left, scroll down to "Settings," and toggle on "Simplified Interface."

With Simplified Interface on, you'll see a large button to enter your destination, a large button to request a ride, and that's mostly it. The app will show you the driver's name and vehicle when they accept, and a large map showing their location. The interface stays simple throughout the entire ride.

Adding a trusted contact who can track your trip

You can add a family member or friend as an emergency contact who will receive a notification when your ride starts and another when you arrive at your destination. They can also see your location on a map in real time during the trip. This gives both of you peace of mind, especially if you're traveling alone.

To add an emergency contact, open the Uber app, tap your profile icon, go to "Settings," then "Emergency Contacts," and tap "Add Emergency Contact." Enter their phone number or email. They'll receive an invitation and can accept it through email or the Uber app. Once they accept, they'll automatically see your trips going forward.

Booking a ride step by step

Open the Uber app or go to uber.com. Enter your pickup location (the app usually detects your current location automatically) and your destination. The app will show you available ride types — UberX is the standard option, Uber Assist has extra space for mobility devices, and Uber WAV is wheelchair accessible. Select the type you need.

The app will show you the estimated fare and how many minutes until a driver arrives. Tap "Request" to confirm. Once a driver accepts, you'll see their name, photo, vehicle type, and license plate. Watch the map as they approach. When they arrive, get in and tell them your destination (they can see it on their app, but it's good to confirm). At the end of the ride, the fare is charged automatically — no tipping required, though you can add a tip through the app if you want.

Uber Assist and Uber WAV for mobility needs

Uber Assist is a larger vehicle with extra space for walkers, canes, wheelchairs, or other mobility devices. The driver is trained to help passengers with boarding and securing equipment. Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) is specifically equipped with a ramp or lift for wheelchair users. Both cost more than a standard UberX ride, though the exact difference varies by city and demand.

Not all cities offer these services, and availability can be limited during certain hours. When you open the app to request a ride, you'll see which options are available in your area. If Uber Assist or WAV isn't showing up, it may not be available in your location, or there may be no drivers currently active. In that case, you can request a standard UberX and note in the app that you need extra time to board, or call a local taxi company that specializes in accessible vehicles.

Safety tips for seniors using Uber

Before you get in, confirm the driver's name, photo, and license plate match what's on your app. If something doesn't match, don't get in — cancel the ride and request a new one. Sit in the back seat, not the front. Share your trip details with a family member using the emergency contact feature, or text them the driver's name and license plate before you leave.

Keep your phone with you during the ride. If you feel unsafe at any point, you can contact Uber through the app by tapping the driver's name at the top of the screen and selecting "Call Support." After the ride, you can rate the driver and report any concerns. Uber takes safety seriously and will investigate reports of inappropriate behavior.

Using Uber Eats for food delivery

Uber Eats is a separate service that delivers food from restaurants to your home. You order through the Uber Eats app or website, select a restaurant and items, pay through the app, and a driver brings the food to your door. It works the same way as ordering a ride — you see the driver's location on a map and get a notification when they arrive.

Uber Eats is useful if you have difficulty getting to a restaurant, can't cook, or want a meal delivered without leaving home. The cost includes the food price, a delivery fee (usually $2 to $5), and a service fee. You can add a tip through the app. Delivery typically takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the restaurant and delivery service are.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a smartphone to use Uber?

No. You can book rides on a computer at uber.com, or ask a family member to book for you using their phone. Some cities also offer phone-based booking by calling 1-833-USE-UBER, though this isn't available everywhere.

What if I don't know my exact address or can't describe where I am?

The Uber app uses GPS to detect your location automatically. If you're unsure, you can move the map pin to show exactly where you want to be picked up. If you're at a business or landmark, you can type the name into the app and it will find it.

Can I request a female driver?

Uber doesn't have an official option to request a driver of a specific gender. However, you can contact Uber support through the app after requesting a ride and explain your preference — they may be able to help in some cases, though it's not may provide.

What happens if the driver goes the wrong way or takes a longer route?

You can see the route on the map in real time. If you notice the driver is going the wrong direction, you can speak up and correct them. If you believe you were overcharged, you can contact Uber support through the app and request a fare review — they will investigate and refund you if the charge was incorrect.

Is tipping required?

No. Tipping is optional. You can add a tip through the app after the ride ends, or you can choose not to tip. The driver is paid by Uber regardless of whether you tip.