Speaking to elderly parents about their driving abilities can be difficult, as they may associate their car with independence. In fact, one study found that 90% of polled seniors were worried about giving up their vehicles as they age. Unfortunately, there will be a time when your elderly parents will have to switch to a transportation service. Although this adjustment may take time, they will be safer once the switch is made. If this is an issue for your elderly parent, here’s what you need to know. 

How to Tell When Seniors Should Stop Driving

Assessing Health

There are a few health issues that could become apparent once your parent hits their sixties. This doesn’t always mean that a senior shouldn’t drive; it just means they are more likely to start developing one of the following ailments:

• Diabetes
• Hearing or Vision Loss
• Arthritis 
• Dementia

All of the above can affect someone’s ability to drive. Also, if your parent is taking any medications that could make them tired, don’t let them operate a vehicle.

Assessing Ability

Health issues aren’t the only indicators that your loved one shouldn’t operate a vehicle. Here are a few others to watch for:

• Can’t find their way home, even if they have been told where to go
• Driving through a stop sign or a red light
• Stopping at inappropriate times, like at a green light
• Forgetting to use their signal, or driving in two lanes at once
• Multiple car accidents 
• General confusion with road signs or traffic signals

The Benefits of Senior Transportation Services

Switching your parents over to a transportation service doesn’t mean they will lose their independence, as these services can give your parents a lift whenever they need one. Unlike a bus or taxi, a senior transportation service will work with your parent to meet their needs. Some other benefits include:

• Builds Lasting Trust: Public transit can be unreliable, and taxis may make them feel unsafe.
• Respect for Elders: These services are trained to work with seniors. 
• On-Time for Appointments: Your parents can call ahead to make sure they get to their destination.
• Better Emotional Health: Seniors can enjoy being outgoing again, and won’t be confined at home.

If you live in New York City, there’s no better transportation service than Metro Luxury Corp. With over 25 years of experience, 300 vehicles, and 24/7 service, you can rely on them to get your parents where they need to go. Visit them online or call (718) 665-4900 to speak to a member of their team.