One of the biggest difficulties seniors must deal with is loss of independence. It’s the reluctance to relinquish their autonomy and mobility that often makes it hard for many elderly people to stop driving, even when their health and mental clarity begin to decline. While it can be a sensitive topic, caregivers must be vigilant about discussing this issue with their loved ones.
When should people give up their keys?
There’s no defined age when people should stop getting behind the wheel. For some, driving can remain a part of their lives well into their later years, while others need to stop operating vehicles far earlier. Typically, however, people should have their driving abilities reevaluated at the age of 85, a time when vision, hearing and reflexes start to rapidly decline.
Everyday Health explained that instead of focusing on age, though, caregivers should pay attention to a few important signs that their loved ones may need to consider alternative transportation options.
First, consider your relative’s health. If he or she is dealing with any major medical issues, such as diabetes, arthritis, Parkinson’s, hearing or vision loss, dementia, or has recently experienced a stroke, his or her safety and the safety of pedestrians and other drivers could be at risk every time he or she hits the road. Additionally, if your loved one regularly takes strong medication for anxiety or pain, he or she should not be operating any type of machinery, including a car.
“Driving requires people to make fast decisions.”
Because driving occasionally requires people to make fast decisions, your loved one should possess a wide range of motion and quick reflexes, noted HelpGuide. If he or she can’t comfortably look over his or her shoulder, or has difficulty stepping on the break at a moment’s notice, it’s not safe for him or her to be driving.
Outside of health issues, there are a number of warning signs that may indicate someone should no longer be allowed to get behind the wheel. Everyday Health pointed to these red flags as being major signals it’s time for your loved one to stop driving:
- Regularly getting lost in areas that should be familiar to him or her.
- Getting involved in a number of accidents or regularly side-swiping nearby vehicles.
- Not following traffic signals due to confusion.
- Driving through red lights or stop signs.
Perhaps you’ve assessed your relative’s health situation and are still unsure about whether he or she should continue driving. In this case, it’s a good idea to ask yourself a basic question: Would you let your relative drive with children in the car? If the answer is no, you should talk to him or her about possible alternatives to regularly operating a vehicle.
Giving up driving privileges is often difficult for seniors looking to maintain independence.
What should you do when it’s time for your loved one to stop driving?
Many people experience accidents or events that may convince them it’s time to hand over their keys, but others are far more reluctant to give up driving privileges. If you need to approach your loved one about this topic, there are a few things you should keep in mind before initiating the discussion.
First, take some time to imagine your life without a car, suggests Caring.com. If you’re like most people, your vehicle acts as a primary connection between you and the outside world. It lets you visit friends, take trips and run to the grocery store whenever you feel like it. Removing this major part of someone’s life is bound to be an emotional process, so approach the conversation gently and sympathetically.
Because eliminating vehicle use entirely can be a shock to some people, try first suggesting limited car use as long as your loved one is healthy and sharp enough to handle some driving. Try implementing the following rules for your loved one, suggested Everyday Health:
- Driving only in good weather
- Not driving after dark
- Driving only close to home
- Avoiding highways, busy roads and difficult intersections
- Not using cellphones, GPS systems and car radios while driving.
If your relative is still struggling to drive safely even with these security measures in place, it’s time to resume the conversation and discuss alternative transportation methods he or she can use to get around.
What are some good alternatives to driving I can suggest to my loved one?
Because you’re the one directing the discussion about giving up driving, you should be prepared to recommend different modes of transportation to your relative. Let him or her know that, while giving up the care is necessary, there are a variety of ways he or she can remain mobile.
“Talk to your loved on about public transportation.”
First, talk to your loved one about public transportation if this is an option where he or she lives. Many times, taking the bus or train is actually much safer and more convenient than driving for everyone, especially in busy cities. A lot of public transit systems even offer senior discounts on monthly passes, which can end up being far less expensive than regularly purchasing gas. If your loved one doesn’t have a lot of experience using local transportation, help him or her map out the routes to friends’ houses, stores and other frequent destinations.
If your relative’s budget allows for it, suggest that he or she use a private driver or taxi service. Although these options can be fairly expensive, they are very convenient for people used to driving a lot. Additionally, consider setting up a schedule between you and other family members or neighbors willing to drive your loved one around. Try to plan these rides around doctor’s appointments and major errands.
HelpGuide also suggested researching whether your relative’s town, community center or place of worship offers shuttle rides for the elderly. These services are usually free, and can typically take people wherever they need to go. Many shuttles also have regular outings where they drive to parks, movies or other attractions, which is something to point out if your loved one feels as though not driving will reduce his or her social interactions.
If you found an error, highlight it and press Shift + Enter or click here to inform us.
CHC