As we age, our ability to drive safely may change for many reasons.Those can include slower reaction times, vision or hearing loss, or even cognitive decline.It can be a tough situation for seniors and for their adult children.
Driving represents independence for most adults, so conversations about safety can be deeply emotional and difficult.For adult children and caregivers, approaching the topic requires empathy, respect, and a focus on shared goals: safety, independence, and dignity.In honor of National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, lets talk about some practical steps to help both seniors and their adult children collaboratively address transportation safety concerns.Navigating Conversations About Senior-Driving Safety TogetherMaintain Empathy and RespectWhether youre a senior or a concerned family member, its crucial to start the conversation with empathy and maintain it throughout the talk.Avoid becoming confrontational or issuing ultimatums, which will likely only result in defensiveness or resistance.
Framing the conversation as a two-way dialogue encourages understanding and cooperation.For adult children: Consider using I rather than you statements.For example, you could say Ive noticed a few dents on the car and Im a little concerned.Can we talk about how youre feeling behind the wheel lately?For seniors: Its important to stay open to the conversation and remember that the concern comes from a place of love.
Take time to honestly reflect on your own experiences.Are you feeling more anxious while driving? Do you avoid night driving or heavy traffic? Have you had an increasing number of close calls or fender benders?Recognize the Signs That Its Time to TalkThere are several signs that might indicate its time to assess driving abilities:Increased traffic tickets or warningsFrequent close calls or minor accidentsGetting lost on familiar routesDifficulty staying in lanesSlower decision-making or delayed reaction timesDings and scrapes on the cars fenders and doorsWhile these red flags dont automatically mean the older adult must stop driving, they do warrant a conversation and possibly a professional driver-safety evaluation.Create a Collaborative Safety PlanMany times, the goal isnt to stop driving.Instead, its to ensure safe driving.
Working together, seniors and their families can create a plan that might include:Limiting driving to daylight hours or good weatherAvoiding highways or busy intersectionsNot driving during rush hour or peak traffic timesHaving regular health checkups to monitor vision, hearing, and cognitionUpdating skills through senior-driving courses, such as those offered by AARP or local DMVsExploring alternative transportation options like rideshares, community shuttles, or family carpoolingPutting the driving plan in writing helps everyone stay on the same page and can reduce the stress of uncertainty.When and How to Involve Healthcare ProvidersHealthcare providers can be a neutral, trusted voice in the conversation.The input of a doctor, an occupational therapist, or an optometrist may bring clarity and objectivity, especially if the senior is unsure or resistant.Consider involving a trusted healthcare professional if the senior:Has a diagnosis that could impair driving (e.g., dementia, stroke, Parkinsons, or vision loss)Takes medications that may affect alertness or coordinationHas had a recent accident or near-miss incidentsYou can ask the provider for a Comprehensive Driving Evaluation (CDE) or a referral to a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS).These evaluations focus on skills, not age.
They typically result in recommendations ranging from no change needed to limiting driving times or stopping altogether.Preserving Independence Beyond the WheelHanging up the car keys for good doesnt have to mean a senior will lose their independence.Many older adults worry about becoming isolated or reliant on others.Its important to proactively discuss transportation strategies, such as:Access to grocery stores, doctors, and social activitiesTransportation apps and services the senior can learn to useVolunteer or community transport programs for seniorsIt might also be a good time to discuss moving to an independent living or life plan community.
These communities typically provide transportation services for physician appointments, shopping, and attending off-campus programs and activities.We invite you to schedule a time at a PSL location near you to learn more about all the benefits of community life!
Publisher: PSL Blog ( Read More )
