Driving and Seniors: Is It Still Safe for Mom and Dad to Keep the Key?
One of the most difficult things to do is to take the car key away from your aging parent. The incapacity to drive brings an end to freedom, flexibility, and independence – things no human wants to experience. When you reach this stage with your parents, talking to them about it is painful, especially when their driving is impaired.
How to Know It's Time to Let Go of Driving?
Age alone does not impair the driving ability of a senior. When deciding whether it is time to take the key, appreciate that medical conditions and physical well-being, and cognitive skills will have a role in determining whether it is time to ask for the car key. Here are some warning signs to know it's time to ask your loved ones to step on the breaks for the last time:
- Difficulty in moving into or maintaining the correct lanes of traffic
- Losing directions in familiar locations
- Getting easy distractions or having difficulty concentrating
- Over speeding or driving too slow for road conditions
- Frequent close calls
- Frequently denting or scraping the vehicle
When you have determined that it is the right time to hang up the key, the next step is to start the conversation. It is never easy to bring up this topic, but here are some tips to take the sting out of the touchy topic.
Start Early
Suggest to your parents to give up driving as soon as you notice any of the above signs. Your parents will not give up the key the first time you ask, and therefore, beginning the conversation will make it easy as it will begin a process. Suggest that they quit driving at night or during rain, or in heavy traffic.
Having your parents drive part-time will make them appreciate that they can move around without a car. When they eventually have to give it up, it will not come with negative feelings. Do not wait till the signs worsen, but rather start when the signs are mild.
Provide Alternative Transportation
Seniors fear the loss of independence that comes with losing the ability to drive and being confined indoors. When you ask them to give up driving, assure them that they will still move around and meet their friends as usual. Provide alternative convenient transport options where comfort is a priority.
Be Understanding
Asking your parents to give up driving is a radical adjustment as it means giving up some freedom and independence. When the time comes to ask them to give up driving, appreciate that it is not easy, and be respectful when approaching. Acknowledge that it is a hard process and talk to them respectfully and give them room to respond.
Be Candid and Honest
When approaching your mum or dad to ask them to hand over the car key, be candid. Respectfully tell them your opinions openly. Make it clear to them that it's no longer safe for them to drive and state the reasons for this candidly. Being candid will clarify why the best option is to give up driving and accept alternative transport means.
When you have to take the car key from your parents, you can still maintain your independence and freedom. Senior Helpers are here to help your parents arrive at their destination safely. Our caregivers offer driving, cooking, and cleaning, amongst other day-to-day duties. Click here for a consultation.