Seniors Getting on Uber Bandwagon

Uber, a ride-sharing service that operates through a smartphone app, is gaining popularity among seniors searching for a low-cost, on-demand driving service.  Many seniors have smartphones and with the help of tech-savvy grandkids, have loaded the Uber app and are ready to roll. But critics argue that Uber drivers are not properly vetted and can pose a risk, having access to a passenger’s first and last names, address and habits.

According to an April 05, 2015 CBC News report,  Uber skeptics claim that drivers don’t meet the same criteria for licensing or follow the same regulations.  They are also not required to have commercial insurance under which licensed taxi drivers are covered.  Without the high overhead, Uber drivers are able to offer much cheaper rates.

Although Uber doesn’t collect demographics on its riders, drivers have noticed an upswing on the number of seniors ordering rides and the company has taken notice, releasing a promotional video aimed at the older adult market who no longer drive.  To view the video follow the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=70&v=n4d6LVLCdcA .

Cab drivers in Ontario have filed a lawsuit against Uber for $400m in damages according to a July 25, 2015 BBC report.   Canada is just one of several countries that have seen demonstrations against Uber and allegations of sexual assault have been made in both the U.S. and Canada.  Despite lawsuits and backlash from local municipalities, it would appear that Uber is here to stay.  It currently operates in Quebec City, London, Halifax, Edmonton, Hamilton, Montreal, Kitchener-Waterloo and Toronto.

UberAssist, a new feature of the UberX app, became available recently in some cities to allow those with disabilities to get an extra hand from drivers who receive special training and equipment to accommodate folding wheelchairs, collapsable scooters and walkers.  They won’t have ramps or lifts.

Targeting the senior employee market in the United States, Uber has also partnered with AARP to attract more drivers.  Life Reimagined, a subsidiary of AARP, announced the collaboration July 30 with Uber to “provide flexible opportunities for members to earn income as Uber driver-partners,” states the AARP press release.   For more information about the partnership and incentives visit www.uber.com/aarplr .

It would seem seniors and Uber may be a match made in heaven, and with the over-65 population set to explode over the next 20 years, senior drivers and riders alike are poised to capitalize on this booming business.