I’m worried about my dad’s driving abilities. He just turned 84 and is currently recovering from a broken hip, but can’t wait to get back behind the wheel again. He thinks he’s a great driver, but my sister and I think it’s time for him to give it up before he hurts himself or someone else. Any suggestions on how to handle this matter?
Nervous Son
Dear Nervous,
Be gentle with your dad. Those subtle physical and mental changes, which happen with aging, cause many seniors to drive less safely than they used to. But, what makes this a more complicated problem is these changes usually happen so slowly, most people don’t recognize them until they’re faced with a quick driving decision that they can’t react to anymore. Here are some tips on how to keep your dad safe and mobile.
Driving Assessment
How bad is your dad’s driving? The best way to find out is to take a ride with him and watch out for some key warning signs, including:
• Driving too slow, too fast, or doesn’t stay in his own lane.
• Running stop signs or red lights without noticing.
• Doesn’t seem to notice other cars, pedestrians or cyclists.
• Has problems working the pedals or turning onto busy streets.
• Reacts slowly and makes poor driving decisions.
• Also, has your dad had any recent near misses, fender benders or tickets?
Driving Adjustments
For the most part, the vast majority of people over age 65 change how they drive. For example, they may choose not to drive after dark or during rush hour traffic. Some may avoid highways or other busy roads while others will cut back on how often they drive. Helping your dad know his driving limitations and making appropriate adjustments can help keep him and other drivers safe.
Safety Concerns
If you’re seriously worried about your dads driving safety, talk with him head-on and respectfully express your concerns. And don’t be surprised if you get an angry or defensive response. For many older drivers, driving represents freedom and independence and allows them to stay connected to their community. If you need some additional support, ask your dad to visit his doctor for a physical examination, or take a driving test with a driver rehabilitation specialist (see savvy resources). If you still need help, notify your state motor vehicles department and ask them to handle it.
Transportation Options
It’s sometimes easier for people to give up driving if they have other ways to get around. So, help your dad develop a master list of transportation options that includes names, schedules and phone numbers to call. Your list could include friends, relatives, local shuttle services, cab companies, bus transit service, community or senior centers, churches or ride sharing programs. The best resource to find senior transportation options in your community is to call your Area Agency on Aging. Call your Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 to get the local number or visit www.eldercare.gov.
Savvy Resources:
• The American Occupational Therapy Association: Provides free information and resources to assist older drivers, and offers a driver rehabilitation specialist national contact list. Visit www.aota.org/olderdriver or call 888-232-1184.
• AARP: Offers a driver improvement course specially designed for senior drivers. Call 888-227-7669 or visit www.aarp.org/life/drive.
• The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety: Offers some excellent free publications including “Drivers 55 Plus: Check Your Own Performance” and “How to Help an Older Driver” that you can get at www.aaafoundation.org. And visit www.seniordrivers.org and click on “Roadwise Review” for information about obtaining the CD-ROM ($15) self-assessment tool that helps seniors check their own driving abilities.
• The Hartford Financial Services Group and MIT AgeLab: Offers information, resources and the free brochure “Family Conversations with Older Drivers.” Visit www.thehartford.com/talkwitholderdrivers.
