Uber launches new experience for seniors, including Simple Mode and Medicare payments

Uber is rolling out an update for senior riders this week, offering a more accessible ride share experience for individuals and families.

Part of Uber's Family profile, the new Senior Accounts can be connected to other riders' accounts for additional safety and payment features. Connected family members can book rides and change account settings on behalf of the rider, and contact the driver while a ride is underway.

The app will get a smart redesign, too: Riders with Senior Accounts will see larger text, fewer buttons and ride options, and easy-to-follow prompts on screens, the company explained, and family members can track rides in real time. Called Simple Mode, the app experience can be turned on even without adding a Senior Account to a family profile, directly in the user's settings.

"Senior accounts and Simple mode represent an important milestone in Uber’s ongoing commitment to accessible transportation,” said Ashu Manohar, director of product management at Uber. “These features reflect our dedication to designing technology that meets people where they are and supports mobility at every stage of life.”

Uber is also adding more payment options to Senior Accounts, including the option to pay with a connected family member’s card or Medicare Flex cards, prepaid debit cards offered under the Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan.

The company's new Senior Accounts are the latest in a series of new upgrades to the company's fleet of drivers, including a recent pilot with the U.S. Army and an expansion of its autonomous vehicle partnership with Waymo.

In May, Uber competitor Lyft launched Lyft Silver, a similar simplified app experience for older riders featuring enlarged text, streamlined ride options, and 24/7 live phone support. Lyft Silver can be added to family accounts and joint wallets, as well as the courtesy ride program Lyft Concierge, which lets others schedule rides on behalf of the rider.