Driving With Seniors: When Is The Right Time To Hand Over The Keys?

Driving With Seniors: When Is The Right Time To Hand Over The Keys?

Most people remember getting their license and first car as being a wonderful, liberating experience. There is something truly exhilarating about being able to drive wherever you please, essentially, and to not have to rely on other people to get from point A to point B. While the more exciting feelings of driving slowly wane over the years, there is still an strong connotation to independence that is held in having your own vehicle and being able to transport yourself.

However, as we age, driving becomes a little more difficult. The chance of a fatal crash rises sharply after your loved one reaches the age of 70. Reduced strength and flexibility makes it more difficult for seniors to perform actions such as looking over their shoulder before changing lanes or looking left and right at intersections. Leg pain can make it difficult to move one’s foot from the gas pedal to the brake, and diminished arm strength can make it hard to turn the steering wheel. Keeping track of road signs, signals, markings, traffic and pedestrians all at once can become difficult or confusing as your loved one gets older. Health issues such as difficulty seeing, difficulty hearing, conflicting medications, or memory problems can contribute to dangerous driving in seniors.

Some warning signs that your loved one may need to stop driving include: Drifting into lanes unexpectedly, braking/accelerating unintentionally, failing to use turn signals or signaling without changing lanes or making turns, increased citations, “close calls” or telling dents and scrapes on the vehicle.

How do I tell my loved one they need to stop driving?

It is extremely difficult for caregivers to explain to their loved one that they may not be able to safely drive anymore. There is a strong possibility that your loved one will be offended by your suggestion or very upset. For many people the ability to drive is a strong sign of independence, and many are reluctant to admit that they should no longer be driving.

– When addressing this issue with your loved one, it is very important to remain supportive and to address that you are simply keeping their best interest in mind. Avoid using patronizing tones or wording and let your loved one know that you are expressing your concern, not ridiculing them.

– In most states, your loved one can be required to take a behind-the-wheel test that will determine whether or not they should be on the road.

– A good way to address the issue might be saying something along the lines of: “Mom/Dad, you are pretty alert about noticing when your kids are not quite up to par on issues and never hesitate to let us know when you see or sense a danger in our behavior or activities. I’ve noticed lately that your reflex and response time has been slower than usual when you are behind the wheel. You have instilled in me the important rule that safety comes first, and because I love you I want to let you know that I am concerned for your safety. There are other alternatives, such as letting someone drive for you or other forms of transportation.”

– Make sure that if your loved one is going to stop driving that you have other means of transportation available for them. If you are unable to drive them to places they need to go, see if a family friend or neighbor can help out. Public transportation may be an option for some individuals.

How can Oxnard Family Circle help?

If your loved one has stopped driving, they may become a bit more limited in activities that they are able to do. Some individuals may become depressed if they are no longer able to drive. At Oxnard Family Circle we provide transportation to and from our center and numerous stimulating activities that can boost your loved one’s mood and health. While losing the ability to drive can be a blow to your loved one’s mood or ego, Oxnard Family Circle can replenish your loved one’s physical and mental health by offering socialization, exercise, healthy meals and exciting events without requiring them to drive. Your loved one will most likely be upset upon first realizing that driving may not be an option anymore. However, you can remind him or her  that there are still many other options available to living a fulfilling life.