LONDON: Uber is launching a feature for relatives to remotely book and track trips for their elderly parents or grandparents.
New “senior accounts”, which have rolled out in about a dozen countries around the world, are designed to make it easier for order people to use the ride-hailing app to get around.
Senior accounts are now available in the US, UK, Germany, Taiwan, Hong Kong, India, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Portugal, France and South Africa.
It gives people access to a streamlined version of the app featuring larger text, buttons that are easier to tap, simplified screens and fewer steps to making a booking.
Through Uber’s existing “family profiles” feature, trusted family members or caregivers can invite an older adult to set up an account.
They can then remotely book or manage rides for the older user.
It means they can offer support from afar including live-tracking their trip and the ability to contact the driver or Uber’s safety reporting line.
Loved ones will also be able to access the driver’s name and vehicle information when a booking is made.
Users can save favourite places for booking shortcuts, or use flexible payment options – and they also have the option to book trips independently without linking to a relative.
Senior accounts were piloted in the US and Latin America last month and are now being rolled out in other countries.
Uber said it worked with older users and accessibility advocates to develop the feature, which was designed to address concerns that many elderly people feel excluded from technology or do not have the skills to be digitally-savvy.
It also follows the launch of “teen accounts” last year where parents and carers can also supervise bookings and teenagers are matched to more experienced drivers.
Uber UK’s general manager Andrew Brem said the tools “prioritise simplicity, safety and peace of mind” for older people and their families.
“These features are all about helping older adults stay independent and connected, while giving loved ones the confidence that Uber is there to help,” he said. – PA Media/dpa
