Lyft’s New ‘Silver’ Accounts Should Make Hailing a Rideshare Easier for Older Passengers

Rideshare services are convenient, but accessing them can prove a challenge to less tech-savvy potential passengers, particularly older adults. But companies are introducing changes that make their services easier for these groups to access. Lyft Silver is a new account type that, like Women+ Connect (aimed at women and nonbinary passengers), makes it simpler and safer to hail a ride and get support when needed.

Lyft Silver has several features to make rideshare services more accessible to older adults. With a Lyft Silver account, users will see a redesigned version of the app with larger fonts and simpler navigation. The app will prioritize matching Lyft Silver users with vehicles that are easy to get into and out of, and allow them to share real-time ride details with trusted contacts.

Lyft will also offer live phone support between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET to assist Lyft Silver riders in the U.S.

How to access Lyft Silver

Lyft Silver will be available nationwide on May 5 to the first 25,000 riders to enroll in the service, with wait list signups open now.

To enable Lyft Silver in the Lyft app, tap You on the bottom right menu bar and select Lyft Silver. You can also gift Lyft Silver to a friend or family member and fund their rides with Lyft Cash. Send an invite from the Lyft Silver page in the app—the recipient will get a link via text to turn the service on (and be prompted download the app if they don't already have it). You can add a gift card with the invite, which will automatically apply Lyft Cash to the recipient's account.

Uber also has options for older riders

Lyft competitor Uber also has features built for older riders. A senior account has a "simple mode" for the Uber app, with larger text and icons, fewer ride options, prominent saved locations, and a streamlined booking process. Simple mode is automatically on for senior accounts, but can be disabled under Account > Settings > Accessibility > Simple mode.

Uber senior accounts can be set up by a family organizer, and health benefits cards can be added for eligible rides, such as transportation to and from medical appointments.

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