Boyd's Blog

While driving as a senior can provide independence, mobility, and a more flexible way to be connected to our community and loved ones, there are risks that come with age.  The changes that happen through the course of life such as changes to hearing, vision, and reaction time can all be factors to take into consideration for driving seniors.  These physical and cognitive changes can make driving difficult for seniors, or even dangerous, which often leads to having to give up driving all together.  This may not be an easy transition for some.  Here are some things to keep in mind about your senior driver.

Causes of Driving Difficulties for Seniors

• Health Conditions
• Vision Impairment
• Hearing Imparement 
• Perscription Drug Interactions

Warning Signs for Senior Driving Safety

• Increases to Car Insurance Premiums
• Traffic Tickets
• Damage to the Car
• Reluctance to Drive
• Observations or Reports from Friends or Family
• Driving Behavior Changes such as forgetting to fasten their seat belt or seeming overly distracted while driving.

How to Talk to Your Senior Loved One About Driving

 

Addressing your concerns is time sensitive as it may be a matter of life or death.  The conversation may be difficult to have, but if your approach it from a place of love and concern it may go a little easier.  Let them know what you have observed and that you are concerned while keeping in mind that driving is part of their independence and is important to them.  Here are some tips for having this difficult conversation.

• Plan ahead.  Have your concerns in mind before you start the conversation and be ready to talk through them calmly.
• Be Prepared for Additional Conversations.  Don't assume this matter will be resolved in a single conversation.  Be ready to readdress it as needed.
• Start with Curiosity.  Try to avoid coming on to strong.
• Handle Objections through Reflective Listening.  Your beloved senior may have reasons for not wanting to stop driving.  Listen to each concern and address it independently.
• Make Sure YOU Make Time for a Long Conversation.  Be patient and don't interupt your senior.  Let them speak their mind and give them time to explain their reasoning.
• Discuss Other Potential Issues that May Affect Their Driving.  These may include health concerns and or recommendations from a doctor.
• Discuss Alternatives.  Possibly setting limits such as no night time driving or using alternate forms of transportation.

Helping Your Senior Transition From Driving

 

Giving up driving is likely to be difficult.  It means a loss of some independence.  This can mean an increase in isolation and dependency along with other emotional changes including depression.  Here are some things you can do to help make this transition easier.

• Listen.  Especially during the first few weeks after they stop driving.  Be sure to listen when they talk about driving or wanting to drive.  This is their way of working through the situation.  Be kind, don't interrupt, and be supportive.
• Share Memories.  Talking about experiences driving is a way of helping your loved one work through the loss, or grieving process, of their ability to drive on their own.
• Watch for Signs of Depression.  These can range from sleeplessness and fatigue to loss of or excessive eating.  If you think your loved one is depressed contact their doctor for additional support.
• Be There.  Make a point to be available more than usual for your loved one during this transition.  Do regular checkins, encourage them to keep their social contacts, and offer to drive them when you can.

For more information or help in taking care of your senior loved ones please visit Caring.com for additional resources and information.