As we get older, some of the routine activities we once managed effortlessly can become more challenging. One of the most difficult topics families often face is deciding when it is time to talk to their parent about handing over the car keys. Driving provides independence and freedom, but safety on the road is paramount, both for your loved one and others. Here are some telltale signs that your senior loved one shouldn’t be driving and some tips for how to best approach this sensitive subject.
1. Problems with hearing or vision.
With age, eyesight and hearing naturally decline. This can make getting behind the wheel of a car very dangerous. If you notice your older loved one is having issues reading road signs, seeing traffic lights, or spotting pedestrians, it may be time to talk about their ability to operate a car. Similarly, problems hearing horns, sirens, or even their turn signals can impair safe driving and should be addressed.
2. Poor reaction time.
Safe driving requires quick reaction times to unexpected situations, including sudden stops or switching lanes. If your senior loved one is showing signs of poor reflexes or slowed responses to traffic signals or other drivers, it may be time to have a conversation about their driving.
3. Frequent “close-calls” or accidents.
If your older parent has experienced an increasing number of fender benders or “close-calls”, it may indicate that their driving skills are declining. Observe your parent’s vehicle. New dents, scratches, or damage could be an indicator of parking difficulties or minor accidents they may not have mentioned.
4. Getting lost in familiar areas.
If your parent starts to get confused or lost while driving in areas they know well, it may be an early sign of cognitive decline, such as dementia. For example, if you notice your parent is getting lost on routes they’ve driven for years or frequently forgets where they parked or how to get home, it could be a sign that it’s time to hand over the car keys.
5. Increased stress or anxiety about driving.
For some seniors, the stress and anxiety associated with driving can signal that they no longer feel confident navigating the roads. If your loved one is visibly overwhelmed behind the wheel, it can lead to poor decision-making and unsafe outcomes during difficult driving situations, such as heavy traffic or poor weather conditions.
Tips for Approaching the Conversation About Driving with Your Parent
It’s never easy to watch your parent lose the ability to do things they once did with ease, including driving. If you believe your senior loved one is no longer safe behind the wheel, it’s important to address the issue sooner rather than later. Here are some helpful tips for having this conversation with patience and understanding:
- Pick the Right Moment: Avoid bringing up the topic of their driving during a stressful situation or while they’re behind the wheel.
- Express concern, not criticism: Never criticize their driving skills. Emphasize that your concern comes from a place of love and care.
- Offer alternatives: Provide practical alternatives like ride-sharing services or assistance from family members that will still give them freedom and mobility. Many senior living communities also offer transportation services, providing a safe and convenient solution.
- Have a backup plan: If your parent refuses to stop driving despite growing safety concerns, you may need to consider outside help. This could include recruiting other close family members for support, reporting the issue to their doctor, or arranging for a driving test or medical evaluation.
Assisted Living: A Safe and Supportive Solution
The conversation is never easy but recognizing the signs that your senior parent is no longer safe on the road is essential for their well-being and the safety of others. If your parent needs additional assistance, including support with activities of daily living, exploring assisted living could be the next step toward ensuring their well-being and peace of mind for your entire family.
Assisted living communities, like Country Place Senior Living, offer the perfect balance of support, independence, and safety, providing transportation and care while allowing seniors to maintain their quality of life. To learn more about life at Country Place, schedule your in-person tour today!