### Uber Expands Simplified Senior Accounts Nationwide and Internationally

Uber is expanding its reach to better serve older adults as it rolls out its senior accounts with a streamlined design and clearer navigation across the United States and various international locations. The new accounts feature larger typefaces, fewer buttons, and easier-to-follow instructions, specifically tailored for senior citizens.

Following a successful test run last month, Uber has now made these senior accounts available to the public in the US, as well as in select regions in Taiwan, Hong Kong, India, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Portugal, France, and South Africa. The introduction of senior accounts is timely, as the world is set to see one in six people aged 60 or over by 2030. Recognizing that more seniors are increasingly engaging with technology that wasn't originally designed for them, Uber is prioritizing accessibility within its app.

The senior accounts are integrated within Uber’s family profile features, alongside teen accounts. They not only include a larger font and a more straightforward user interface but also store saved destinations for convenient ride requests. Additionally, the accounts offer expanded payment options, including the ability to use a Medicare flex card.

To enhance usability, seniors can designate a family member or caregiver to manage ride bookings, adjust settings, and contact drivers on their behalf if necessary. Users can also opt to share their location, allowing family members and caregivers to track their movements.

For those who prefer a simplified interface but are not connected to a family account, Uber provides an option called "Simple Mode" in the Account section of the app, which offers the same enhancements of larger fonts and a less complex design.

This effort isn’t new for Uber. In early 2020, the company piloted a project involving a 1-800 number for ride requests aimed at older adults, but it was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, Uber has introduced a new number - 1-833-USE-UBER - intended primarily for senior customers who prefer making ride requests via a toll-free number rather than using an app.

Uber's initiative to make its service more accessible to seniors comes in tandem with Lyft’s similar efforts. Lyft’s "Lyft Silver" accounts also cater to older customers with features such as a larger typeface and a simplified design, along with more accessible vehicles and human-staffed customer service support.

By prioritizing ease of use and accessibility, Uber hopes to better accommodate the growing demographic of older adults, ensuring they can comfortably and confidently use ride-hailing services.