Keeping an elderly parent safe can be difficult; you want to foster their independence while also recognizing their limitations. Many seniors reach a point where they should no longer be driving. Caregivers must identify this point for seniors and understand how to address the issues thoughtfully with their loved ones. Follow these tips when evaluating whether the senior in your life should be driving.

Signs a Senior Should Stop Driving

Everyone has a different health history, cognition, and mobility. As a result, seniors’ driving abilities vary, with some needing to stop driving earlier than others. As their caregiver, it is your responsibility to ensure your parent stops driving at the appropriate time. Consider these signs when evaluating your parent’s driving abilities:

• Anxiety or Stress While Driving: This can indicate that your parent doesn’t feel confident on the road.
• Impaired Vision or Hearing Loss: These symptoms can make driving difficult and dangerous for themselves and others.
• Reduced Mobility: Seniors with leg, back, or neck pain will have slower responses when driving, which can make changing lanes or braking suddenly more challenging.
• Confusion: If your elderly parent doesn’t pay attention to the speed limit, is unsure of which car has the right-of-way, or confuses the pedals, it may be time to stop driving.
• Car Damage: Dents and scratches may indicate that they are struggling to drive safely.

Tips for Talking to Seniors About Driving

Talking to a parent about when to give up their driver’s license isn’t an easy conversation. Set yourself up for success by asking your parent questions instead of telling them what to do.

Start the conversation by asking about their confidence when they’re behind the wheel, any challenges they might be facing on the road, or any accidents they may have had recently. Then, gently point out any problems you may have noticed, with a focus on safety. Point out the potential risks of continued driving. Finally, work with them to calm any concerns about not being able to drive. Discuss public and private transportation options that can help them retain their independence even after they surrender their license.

If it’s time for your senior parent to stop driving, home health care services might be an option to consider. Through Advantage Home Health & Hospice of Poteau, OK, caregivers can discover the hospice, physical therapy, and nursing care services available for their loved ones. This locally-owned agency delivers superior care for all patients and their families. Call (918) 647-0653 or visit the website to learn more about available services.