If you have an aging parent, it can be tough to talk to them about giving up driving. However, waiting too long could result in an accident, tickets, or even physical harm. Luckily, there are elderly assistance programs that can help them get the care they need without driving to a separate location. Here are some of the top signs to look out for that may indicate the need to talk to your parents about driving.

How to Tell If It’s Time for an Aging Parent to Stop Driving

1. They Can’t See or Hear Clearly

Vision and hearing are both essential for staying safe on the road. If you notice your parent squinting constantly, they may not be able to see pedestrians, traffic lights, or signs while they’re on the road. If they constantly ask you to repeat yourself, that may mean they can’t hear other cars or emergency signals clearly.

2. They Have Trouble Remembering or Focusing

Cognitive skills are also important since drivers need to constantly monitor their surroundings, speed, and route all at once. If your parent has trouble multitasking or tends to lose their train of thought regularly, they may lose their focus while out on the road and end up in an unsafe situation.

3. They’ve Been in Accidents or Close Calls

The hope is for seniors to stop driving before getting into any significant accidents. Small scrapes and scratches on their vehicle could indicate that their skills are slipping. If you drive with them or hear them speak of close calls regularly, that’s also a good sign it’s about time to give up the keys.

If you’re looking for elderly assistance for an aging parent, CareResource Hawaii is here to help. Based in Honolulu, the home health care company provides services for residents throughout Oahu, Maui, Molokai, and the Big Island, including respite care, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. The team maintains all necessary certifications and even receives ongoing training and education to provide the best possible care. Visit the company’s website to see their full list of elderly assistance services. To discuss your loved one’s needs, call (808) 599-4999.