Uber is a ride-sharing app that provides customers with many taxi-like benefits. A lot of seniors are taking advantage of the transportation app for running errands, going to the doctor’s office, or attending social events. Here are some safety tips for aging adults to follow when taking an Uber or any other ride-sharing service.
Note that another great option for families is to hire a professional caregiver. For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Lincoln, CA, Home Care Assistance is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.
Verify Information Before Getting Inside the Car
The license plate of the car should always match the driver’s information on the smartphone app. Your elderly loved one should also verify that the photo on the Uber app matches the person picking him or her up. If either of these things is inaccurate, your loved one shouldn’t get in the vehicle. Ride-sharing services are only available through an app, so seniors should never get into a car with someone claiming to be an Uber driver unless they’ve requested the ride and verified the driver’s information.
Share Rides with Others
Although your loved one can take a solo ride, it’s a good idea to ride with family members or friends. Another option would be a carpool ride, which most ride-sharing companies provide. Uber pool services are generally cheaper than solo trips. Having more people in the vehicle could make your loved one feel more secure. To help your loved one get more familiar with the ride-sharing process, take a few trips together until he or she becomes comfortable with the service.
For your loved one’s long-term needs—including safe, reliable transportation—consider hiring a professional caregiver. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care Lincoln, CA, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Refrain from Disclosing Personal Information
It’s okay to have a conversation with an Uber driver or other riders, but your loved one shouldn’t share any personal information. Sharing his or her name and talking about sports, television shows, and other small details is fine, but your parent should never let the driver or other riders know how long he or she will be on vacation or mention living alone. Giving away too much personal information can be dangerous.
Share Trip Details with Family Caregivers
The ride-sharing service should have a “share trip” option on its app for customers to use. Once your parent has requested the Uber ride, he or she should share the details of the trip with you and other family members. The app will display the driver’s information, which includes his or her name, a photo, the ETA for the trip, and the driver’s current location. When your loved one shares the trip details, you can access the link without creating an Uber account. The link gives you the ability to track your loved one from the time he or she gets into the vehicle until he or she is dropped off at the destination. Make sure your loved one asks the driver to take the most direct route so you can follow along on your phone.
A trusted professional caregiver can provide your loved one with safe transportation and much more. Lincoln senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. If your loved one needs professional care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (916) 226-3737 today.