Understanding the Importance of Driving for Seniors
It’s one of the hardest things older people have to do – give up their car keys.
“It’s one of the most difficult discussions that families will have with senior loved ones, because they equate driving with independence.” said said Austin Blilie, Chief Operating Officer at Tudor Oaks Home Care’s parent organization, ABHM. “There is no magic number – no set age when people should stop driving. However, we know that many seniors drive, on average, seven to ten years longer than they probably should.”
There are a number of age-related issues that could impact your aging loved one’s ability to drive, including poor vision, hearing problems and joint/muscle issues. For example, arthritis could affect the ability to grasp the wheel or arthritic hips or knees could slow reaction time or make it difficult to brake.
Signs That It May Be Time to Limit Driving
So, how do you know when it’s time to start having discussions about limiting or stopping driving? Here are some things to consider:
- Does your aging loved one get lost on familiar routes?
- Have you noticed new dents, scratches or other damage to his/her car?
- Has your loved one received a warning or ticket for poor driving?
- Has he/she experienced any close calls?
- Has his/her doctor expressed concerns?
- Does your loved one take medication that may affect their ability to drive?
- Does he/she have a chronic physical condition that may impact their ability to drive safely – Alzheimers, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, glaucoma, etc.
- Do he/she drive too slowly?
- Does he/she get overwhelmed by traffic, signals, road markings, etc.?
- Does your loved one become angry or defensive when you talk about his/her driving?
Resources for Families: Tools and Support
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, it’s probably time to start the driving conversation. A great resource to help you prepare is We Need to Talk – a free online seminar developed jointly with the Hartford and MIT AgeLab and offered through AARP. It will help you assess your loved one’s driving skills and provide tools for a productive discussion.
Alternatives to Driving for Seniors
When considering alternatives to driving for seniors, it’s essential to explore various options that can help maintain their independence while ensuring safety. Here are some talking points to consider:
- Home Care Services: Engaging a home care service can provide seniors with personalized assistance, including transportation to appointments, grocery shopping, and social activities. This option allows them to remain in the comfort of their home while receiving the support they need.
- Public Transportation: Many communities offer public transportation options specifically designed for seniors, including discounted fares and accessible vehicles. Familiarizing your loved one with these services can help them feel more comfortable using public transit.
- Rideshare Services: Apps like Uber and Lyft can be a convenient alternative for seniors who may not want to rely on family members for transportation. These services can be scheduled in advance or used on-demand, providing flexibility.
- Community Shuttles: Some local organizations and senior centers offer shuttle services for seniors to attend events, medical appointments, or grocery shopping. Researching these options can provide valuable resources for your loved one.
- Family and Friends: Establishing a schedule with family members or friends who can assist with transportation can help seniors feel supported and connected while reducing the stress of driving.
By discussing these alternatives, families can help their aging loved ones transition away from driving while still maintaining their independence and quality of life.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Independence
Navigating the conversation about driving with your aging loved ones can be challenging, but it is essential for their safety and well-being. By recognizing the signs that it may be time to limit or stop driving, families can take proactive steps to ensure their loved ones remain safe while maintaining their independence. Exploring alternatives to driving, such as home care services, public transportation, and ride share options, can provide the necessary support for seniors to continue enjoying their lives without the stress of driving.