Are you caring for an aging loved one? If so, do they often need a ride to places like doctors’ offices, the grocery store, etc.? Depending on where you live, finding different transportation options can be tricky. We’ve outlined several of them in our recent blog post, Transportation Options for Caregivers. One of the options mentioned was ride-on-demand apps like Uber and Lyft. Find out how you can use ride-on-demand apps like these to help you figure out transportation for your aging loved one.
How Does Uber and Lyft Work?
To use the regular features of Uber and Lyft, you must first download the app to your smartphone, create a profile account, and link your account to a credit card. Once you’ve done that, you will be ready to order rides.
To order a ride – you simply launch the app, select what type of ride you need and the number of passengers, and enter your starting location and the destination. Once this information is confirmed, available cars will be identified in your proximity, and then one will accept your ride request and arrive shortly. You can also schedule rides ahead of time. Uber and Lyft also give you a chance to rate your experience after each ride to ensure they you are getting the best driver and experience possible. The drivers will also rate the riders as well. These ratings are important because drivers will be more likely to accept picking up those riders with higher ratings. This is a popular way to get around particularly for those in the millennial generation.
Using Transportation Apps for Aging Adults
As mentioned above, these apps make it easy for you to get around. Both Uber and Lyft recognized that many customers may require assistance getting in to and out of the car, and that some may not have a smartphone to use the app. Based on this they each created additional accommodations to help those with limited mobility and those without smartphones.
Accommodations for Those with Limited Mobility
For those who require accommodation for limited mobility, blindness, or other conditions, both Uber and Lyft have generated door-to-door services. For Uber, it is called UberAssist and for Lyft, it is called Lyft Concierge. These services still use the app interface to order a ride, but require additional information in your profile to include information about your needs (i.e. you need assistance from your door, have a service animal, or need a vehicle large enough to hold a wheelchair). Check directly with UberAssist and Lyft Concierge to see if they are available in your area.
Using Transportation Apps without a Smartphone
If using a smartphone is difficult or not available for you or your aging parent – you can order an Uber or Lyft using a third party service. For Uber, you can call GoGoGrandparent or RideWith24 and for Lyft, you can call GreatCall to request a car. These services act similarly to dispatch services for taxis by taking your information and ordering your car. You don’t need an account with Uber or Lyft. These third party companies do charge a fee for their service (up to 13% or more) so be sure to understand the costs before ordering.
Whether you have a smartphone or not, you can take advantage of the growing industry of on-demand-ride services like Uber and Lyft to get around. Do your research and find the best options in your area. Share this information with your family and loved ones!
