Lyft and Uber Ride Sharing: A Step By Step Guide

Lyft and Uber ride sharing are great options for seniors and anyone else wanting to get around independently. These ride-hailing apps have revolutionized the way people travel in cities around the world. You can quickly and easily request a ride from a driver who will pick you up and take you to your destination.

The benefits of ridesharing are numerous. First and foremost, it reduces the number of cars on the road, which in turn reduces traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions. Ridesharing also helps to save money by reducing fuel costs and vehicle maintenance expenses. For those who do not own a car, ridesharing provides an affordable and convenient way to travel.

Uber Wav is a service that provides wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) for riders who use mobility devices or have difficulty climbing into standard vehicles. WAVs are equipped with ramps or lifts to provide accessibility for people with disabilities.

Similarly, Lyft offers Lyft Access with wheelchair-accessible vehicles for fixed frame wheelchairs and up to 2 additional passengers.

Note that Uber WAV and Lyft Access may not be available in all cities or regions, and the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles may be limited in some areas.  Check the app in advance.

Whether you’re new to Uber and Lyft or just need a refresher, this step-by-step guide will help you use these popular apps to get where you need to go. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you’ll be on your way!

Using Uber Ride Sharing

1. Download the Uber app: Download the Uber app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices).
2. Create an account: Sign up for a new account by providing your name, phone number, and email address. You’ll also need to create a password and enter your payment information.
3. Enter your destination: Tap the “Where to?” box and enter your destination. You can type in the address or use the map to select a location.
4. Choose your ride: Uber offers several different ride options, such as UberX (basic ride), UberX Share (shared ride), Uber Green (electric vehicles), Uber Reserve (book in advance), Uber BLACK (luxury ride), and UberEATS (food delivery). Choose the option that best suits your needs.
5. Confirm your ride: Review the details of your ride, including the estimated cost and driver information, and tap “Confirm Uber.”
6. Wait for your ride: The app will show you the estimated time of arrival for your driver. You can track your driver’s progress on the map in the app.
7. Enjoy your ride: When your driver arrives, make sure to confirm their identity before getting in the car. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy your ride!
8. Pay for your ride: When you reach your destination, the app will automatically charge your payment method on file. You’ll receive a receipt via email.

Using Lyft

1. Download the Lyft app: Download the Lyft app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices).
2. Create an account: Sign up for a new account by providing your name, phone number, and email address. You’ll also need to create a password and enter your payment information.
3. Enter your destination: Tap the “Where to?” box and enter your destination. You can type in the address or use the map to select a location.
4. Choose your ride: Lyft offers several different ride options, such as Lyft (basic ride), Lyft Shared, Lyft Lux and Lux Black (luxury), plus Lyft Wait and Save, Priority Pickup, and Preferred. Choose the option that best suits your needs.
5. Confirm your ride: Review the details of your ride, including the estimated cost and driver information, and tap “Request Lyft.”
6. Wait for your ride: The app will show you the estimated time of arrival for your driver. You can track your driver’s progress on the map in the app.
7. Enjoy your ride: When your driver arrives, make sure to confirm their identity before getting in the car.
8. Pay for your ride: When you reach your destination, the app will automatically charge your payment method on file. You’ll receive a receipt via email.

Uber and Lyft ride hailing is pretty straightforward, and once you’ve used them a few times, it’ll become second nature.

Despite the many benefits of ridesharing, there are also some challenges and concerns associated with this practice. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring the safety of passengers and drivers. Ridesharing companies have implemented various safety measures, such as background checks and driver training programs, to address these concerns. However, incidents of assault and harassment have still been reported in some cases.

There are a few ridesharing companies that cater to seniors and older adults. These companies offer transportation services that are tailored to the needs of older passengers, with features such as:

1. Wheelchair accessibility: Some ridesharing companies offer vehicles that are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for seniors with mobility challenges to get around.
2. Assistance with getting in and out of the car: Some drivers are trained to assist seniors with getting in and out of the car safely.
3. GPS tracking: Many ridesharing companies have GPS tracking systems that allow family members or caregivers to monitor the ride and ensure that the passenger arrives at their destination safely.
4. Personalized service: Some ridesharing companies offer personalized service, with drivers who are trained to provide extra assistance and support to seniors.

Some of the ridesharing companies that cater to seniors include:

• GoGoGrandparent: This service allows seniors to request rides through a phone call, rather than using a smartphone app. Drivers are trained to provide extra assistance to seniors and can be requested to help with tasks such as carrying groceries or providing companionship.
• SilverRide: This service provides transportation for seniors and people with disabilities, with drivers who are trained to provide extra assistance and support. The service also offers scheduled transportation for medical appointments and other events.

These companies are not available in all areas. Be sure to do a Google search for “senior ride sharing near me” – or similar – to see your options. Also, check out Google or other reviews to determine if these companies will be right for your needs.

Have you used Lyft or Uber ride sharing?  How was your experience? Let us know in the comments below?