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As loved ones age, their ability to drive safely can often become compromised, especially if they experience changes to their physical or mental well-being. That’s why the home health care providers at Lifetime Care often encourage families to consider taking the keys away from parents. Because this isn’t always an easy task to do, they’ve put together some advice below.

Home Health Care Provider’s Guide to Taking Away Your Parents’ Car Keys

1. Offer Honesty

If you’re having concerns about your parents’ ability to safely drive around town, it’s critical that you honestly share these. Though you respect their need for independence, you should gently remind them that their safety is most important. Whether their eyesight has diminished in recent years or they’ve been diagnosed with dementia, such conditions can impact their ability to drive. You should also address any local laws. For example, in the State of New York, motorists will need to renew their license and pass a vision test, which indicates whether they are capable of driving safely. If you need help addressing these concerns, reach out to a trusted family member or physician for assistance.

2. Provide an Alternative

home health care providerYou should expect older individuals to resist these new rules. However, providing an alternative solution may make the transition a little easier for them. Hire a weekly taxi service or set a schedule to ensure you can include them on your excursions around town. If your parents experience mobility issues or need wheelchair assistance, you may need to rely on medical taxi services.

3. Think Ahead

By preparing your talking points ahead of time, you can discuss this change with your parents much more easily. For example, you can list positive facts like the need to reduce expenses in regards to maintenance and fuel. You can also consider how they’ll respond and ensure you are prepared to handle their frustrations. Let them know that no longer driving or owning a car will allow them to save a significant amount of money. Because they won’t be paying for monthly bills, such as fuel, insurance, and car payments, they can use the money for other purposes like medical costs. 

Taking away your parents’ car keys can ensure their safety as well as that of others. And if your parents want to live independently while maintaining quality of life, they might need help with other tasks. Thankfully, the home health care providers at Lifetime Care can assist them with activities of daily living. Whether they need assistance getting out of bed or preparing food, these professionals can help. Founded in 1960, their home aides serve New York’s Finger Lakes region to provide compassionate services for more than 33,000 patients. To learn about their innovative programs and services, call a home aide expert today at (585) 214-1000 to reach their Rochester location, (800) 598-4995 for Lakeville, or (315) 331-7990 for Newark. Or, like them online for information about their services.

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