Seniors in Wisconsin deserve to enjoy their golden years with the utmost level of comfort and convenience. Driving gives many seniors independence that can be difficult to give up. However, as individuals age, they may face physical or cognitive impairments that make it unsafe for them to drive. As a family member caring for an elderly loved one, you want what is best for them without compromising their safety or the need for increased assistance on day-to-day errands. Talking to them about alternative transportation can help.
Signs It's Time for Seniors to Stop Driving
If your senior loved one struggles with any of the below issues, it's important to consider their health and well-being as they drive. When senior adults are living with any physical or cognitive decline, they seem more likely to be involved in car accidents or experience other adverse experiences while on the road.
- Decreased cognitive ability
- Impaired vision
- Reduced physical ability
- Poor reaction time
- Increased risk of accidents
Be sure to speak with their doctor and determine if giving up driving is the best course of action. If they have certain limitations, the doctor may suggest their own. Your senior loved one may also be forced to give up their license at the DMV if he or she cannot pass the vision test.
How to Help Seniors Stop Driving
There are several methods you can discuss with your senior loved one to encourage them to give up driving.
Discuss Alternative Transportation Options
When your senior loved one can no longer drive safely, it's important to provide alternative transportation options. Start a conversation about public transit or private services that offer rides for seniors. For example, Senior Helpers Milwaukee connects clients with experienced caregivers who can provide door-to-door transportation as part of our in-home care services when needed.
There are also rideshare services, such as Uber, and taxis that can be utilized, though the price of these needs to be within your loved one's budget. Additionally, there may be disability access programs that allow seniors to receive free rides to and from doctor appointments and other important outings.
Offer Rides
You may need to offer rides yourself. As someone your loved one trusts, you may be the best person for the job. They may feel safer getting into the car with you than a stranger. If you have the time and ability, be your loved one's chauffeur so you can ensure they make it to where they need to go safe
Receive Transportation Services and More From Senior Helpers Milwaukee
At Senior Helpers Milwaukee, we believe that no senior should have to sacrifice their safety while out and about. That's why we offer in-home care services for seniors throughout the greater area of Milwaukee--including Glendale, Brookfield, and Germantown. Our certified caregivers can assist with transportation as needed so your loved one can continue going where they need to go—without worrying about driving themselves. We also offer personal assistant programs for errands and basic home maintenance services, along with a variety of other in-home care offerings designed specifically for each senior who is enrolled in our program.
For more information about our comprehensive range of elderly care options available here at Senior Helpers Milwaukee, contact us today!