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Ride sharing has become one of the most practical transportation options for older adults who want to maintain their independence without driving. Whether you've given up your car, prefer not to drive at night, or need a reliable way to get to medical appointments, Uber and Lyft offer a level of flexibility that traditional options like paratransit and taxis often can't match. This guide covers everything seniors need to know about ride sharing — from setting up the apps to staying safe and managing costs. For a deeper look at which platforms work best for older passengers, see our rideshare for seniors guide.
Why Ride Sharing Works Well for Seniors
The core appeal of ride sharing for older adults comes down to three things: independence, reliability, and door-to-door service. Unlike fixed-route buses or trains, ride sharing picks you up exactly where you are and takes you exactly where you need to go. There's no walking to a bus stop, no waiting in bad weather, and no transfers.
For seniors who have stopped driving — whether by choice or necessity — ride sharing fills the gap between full independence and depending on family, friends, or limited public transit. It's available on your schedule, not someone else's. And unlike paratransit services, which often require booking 24-48 hours in advance, ride sharing works on demand.
Many older adults also find ride sharing less stressful than driving themselves, especially in heavy traffic, at night, or in unfamiliar areas. You can focus on getting where you need to go without worrying about navigation, parking, or road conditions.
Getting Started: Setting Up Uber and Lyft
Both Uber and Lyft require a smartphone with the app installed. Here's a step-by-step walkthrough for getting set up.
Step 1: Download the app. Go to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for “Uber” or “Lyft.” Tap “Install” or “Get” to download. Both apps are free to download — you only pay when you take a ride.
Step 2: Create an account. Open the app and follow the prompts to enter your name, phone number, and email address. You'll receive a verification code by text message — enter it to confirm your account.
Step 3: Add a payment method. Enter a credit card, debit card, or link your PayPal account. All payments are handled automatically through the app — you never need to carry cash or hand your card to a driver.
Step 4: Set your home address. Adding your home address makes it easy to request rides home with one tap. You can also save other frequent destinations like your doctor's office, church, or a family member's house.
If the setup process feels overwhelming, ask a family member, friend, or even a librarian for help. Many senior centers and libraries offer classes on using ride sharing apps. Once the app is set up, requesting a ride is straightforward.
How to Request a Ride
Once your app is set up, requesting a ride takes about 30 seconds. Open the app, enter where you want to go, review the price estimate, and tap to confirm. The app shows you your driver's name, photo, car make and model, and license plate number. It also shows a map tracking the driver's location in real time so you know exactly when they'll arrive.
When the driver arrives, verify the car matches what the app shows before getting in. The driver should confirm your name. Once you're settled, the ride begins automatically — there's nothing else you need to do until you arrive at your destination.
After the ride, payment is processed automatically through the app. You can rate your driver and add a tip if you'd like. For more on tipping, see our guide on how to tip your Uber or Lyft driver.
Options for Seniors Without Smartphones
Not every older adult has or wants a smartphone, and that's okay. There are several ways to access ride sharing without one.
Uber by phone: In some areas, you can call a dedicated Uber phone number to request a ride without an app. Availability varies by location — check Uber's website for your area.
Family and caregiver accounts: A family member can request and pay for rides on your behalf using their own Uber or Lyft app. They can track your trip in real time and receive notifications when you arrive. This is one of the most popular options for adult children helping aging parents get around.
GoGoGrandparent: This third-party service acts as an intermediary between seniors and ride sharing. You call a phone number, and an operator arranges an Uber or Lyft ride for you. GoGoGrandparent charges a small additional fee on top of the ride cost but provides a phone-based experience that doesn't require any app or smartphone.
Senior-focused ride services: Some communities have ride services specifically designed for older adults, such as SilverRide or local volunteer driver programs. These often offer extra assistance like help with groceries or walking to the door. Ask your local Area Agency on Aging about options in your community.
Ride Sharing vs Other Senior Transportation Options
| Option | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uber/Lyft | On-demand, door-to-door, available evenings and weekends | Requires app or workaround, no driver assistance beyond the car | Independent seniors who need flexible, reliable transportation |
| Paratransit | ADA-mandated, often very affordable, door-to-door | Must book 24-48 hours ahead, long wait times, shared rides with detours | Seniors with disabilities who qualify for ADA paratransit |
| Taxi | No app needed, can hail or call, some accept cash | Higher cost, no upfront pricing, limited availability in suburbs | Seniors who prefer traditional service without technology |
| Public transit | Cheapest option, senior discounts available | Fixed routes, walking to stops required, limited evening/weekend service | Mobile seniors on transit-connected routes |
| Volunteer driver programs | Free or low-cost, personal assistance, companionship | Limited availability, must schedule in advance, program-specific restrictions | Seniors who need extra help and personal interaction |
| Family/friends | Free, trusted, flexible | Imposes on others' schedules, guilt factor, not always available | Occasional rides when schedule aligns |
What Rides Cost for Seniors
Ride sharing prices for seniors are the same as for any other rider — there's no senior-specific pricing from Uber or Lyft. Typical costs depend on distance, time of day, and local demand. Short trips (under 5 miles) typically cost $8-15, while longer trips can run $20-40 or more. For a detailed breakdown of how pricing works, see our guide on how surge pricing works.
That said, there are ways to reduce costs. Some communities and nonprofits offer ride sharing subsidies for seniors. Programs like Uber Health partner with healthcare organizations to provide rides to medical appointments, sometimes at reduced or no cost to the patient. Ask your doctor's office, hospital, or insurance provider if they offer transportation assistance.
Medicare Advantage plans increasingly cover non-emergency medical transportation, which may include ride sharing. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check whether it includes transportation benefits — many do, especially for rides to and from medical appointments.
Tips for Saving Money
Compare Uber and Lyft. Prices can differ by 15-25% for the same trip. Check both apps before booking. For a detailed comparison, see our Uber vs Lyft guide.
Ride during off-peak hours. Mid-morning (9-11 AM) and early afternoon (1-3 PM) typically have the lowest fares. If your appointment or errand allows flexibility, avoid rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
Schedule recurring rides. If you go to the same place weekly (church, physical therapy, social group), consider using Uber Reserve to lock in pricing and guarantee a driver.
Ask about local programs. Many Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers, and faith-based organizations offer ride sharing vouchers or subsidized transportation. These programs are often underutilized because people don't know they exist.
Share rides when possible. If you and a friend are heading to the same place, sharing one ride cuts the cost for both of you.
Safety Tips for Senior Riders
Ride sharing is generally very safe, but taking a few simple precautions makes the experience even better. For a comprehensive safety guide, see our article on ride sharing safety.
Always verify the car and driver. Before getting into any vehicle, check that the license plate, car make/model, and driver's name match what the app shows. Ask the driver “Who are you here to pick up?” rather than giving your name first.
Share your trip with someone. Both Uber and Lyft have a “Share my trip” feature that sends your real-time location to a family member or friend. Set this up so someone always knows where you are during a ride.
Sit in the back seat. The back seat gives you more space and an easier exit. It also provides a comfortable distance from the driver.
Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right — the car doesn't match, the driver seems distracted or aggressive, or the route seems wrong — you can cancel the ride at any time. Your safety comes first.
Keep your phone charged. You need your phone to track the ride and contact the driver or emergency services if needed. Consider carrying a portable charger for longer outings.
Accessibility Features
Both Uber and Lyft offer accessibility options for riders with specific needs.
Uber Assist: Connects you with drivers trained to assist riders who use folding wheelchairs, walkers, or scooters. Drivers provide extra help getting in and out of the vehicle and loading mobility equipment. Available in most major markets.
Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle): Provides vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts for riders who use non-folding motorized wheelchairs. Availability varies by city and wait times can be longer than standard rides. For riders who use a wheelchair, we have a dedicated guide to wheelchair accessible rideshare services.
Lyft Assisted: Similar to Uber Assist — drivers provide additional assistance for riders who need help with walkers, folding wheelchairs, or getting in and out of the car.
To access these options, look for them in the vehicle selection screen when requesting a ride. If you don't see them, they may not be available in your area yet.
Common Concerns and How to Handle Them
“I'm not comfortable with technology.” That's understandable. Start with a practice ride — a short trip to a familiar destination — with a family member present. Once you've done it once, the process becomes routine. Most seniors who try ride sharing find it easier than expected.
“What if the driver can't find me?” Use the in-app messaging or calling feature to communicate with your driver. Describe where you're standing or waiting. If you're at a large building (hospital, shopping center), specify which entrance you're at.
“What if I need help with bags or a walker?” Most drivers are happy to help with luggage and mobility aids. If you need more substantial assistance, request Uber Assist or Lyft Assisted, where drivers are specifically trained to help.
“Is it safe to ride alone?” Yes — ride sharing is tracked, recorded, and monitored. The app knows your driver's identity, the route, and your real-time location. Millions of people ride alone every day. Using the trip-sharing feature with a family member adds another layer of security.
How Family Members Can Help
If you're an adult child or caregiver helping a senior use ride sharing, here are practical ways to support them.
Set up the app for them. Download the app, create the account, add a payment method, and save frequent destinations. Walk them through requesting a ride once or twice so they feel comfortable doing it themselves.
Use family accounts or profiles. You can request rides on their behalf from your own phone. Both apps let you set a different pickup location, so you can arrange a ride for someone across town.
Set up trip sharing. Configure the app to automatically share trip details with you whenever your parent or loved one takes a ride. This gives you peace of mind without being intrusive.
Monitor the account. Check the ride history periodically to make sure everything looks normal — no unexpected charges, routes look reasonable, and ratings are good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a minimum age to use Uber or Lyft?
There's no maximum age limit. The minimum age to have your own account is 18. As long as you can create an account (or have someone create one for you), you can ride at any age.
Can I bring my walker or wheelchair?
Folding walkers and wheelchairs can go in the trunk of any standard ride. For non-folding motorized wheelchairs, use Uber WAV to get a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Let your driver know in the app notes if you'll need trunk space for mobility equipment.
What if I need to make a stop along the way?
Both Uber and Lyft allow you to add multiple stops when entering your destination. This is useful for picking up a prescription on the way home from a doctor's appointment, for example. Keep in mind that additional stops increase the fare and the driver will wait for a limited time at each stop.
Does Medicare or insurance cover ride sharing?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover ride sharing. However, many Medicare Advantage plans include non-emergency medical transportation benefits that may cover Uber or Lyft rides to medical appointments. Medicaid also covers non-emergency medical transportation in most states. Contact your insurance provider to find out what's covered under your specific plan.
