Is It Time to Hand in Your Car Keys?
Driving is a symbol of independence for many people, and, after decades of driving, it can be easy to forget the feeling you had when you first received your driver’s license. However, there may come a point when it’s important to honestly assess whether it’s safe for you – or your loved one – to continue to drive.
Age is not the sole factor in determining driving safety; many older drivers can continue to drive safely throughout their lives. In fact, older drivers are generally safe drivers. However, various factors, such as medical conditions or changes in physical and mental abilities, can increase driving risks. Recognizing when to limit or cease driving is crucial for maintaining quality of life for yourself or a loved one.
Early Conversations
“We encourage families and loved ones to start having conversations and developing alternative transportation plans as early as possible – before there is a crisis,” says Scott A. Trudeau, PhD, Director of Practice Engagement at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). “Research suggests that most older adults will outlive their ability to drive by seven to ten years. So, setting plans and preferences in motion early is ideal.”
Initiating early conversations with loved ones helps avoid feelings of being blindsided and makes the topic more approachable. The person who starts the conversation is also significant. If you’re planning for yourself, choose trusted friends and family to help you transition. If it’s for a loved one, especially an older parent, consult other family members to identify who your loved one would be most receptive to. Start discreetly and individually, gradually including more family members over time.
Making a Plan
Once you’re comfortable discussing driving with your loved ones, keep track of where and how often you or your loved one are driving. This will help you plan for alternative transportation if driving needs to be limited or stopped. Ideally, this transition will happen gradually, but being prepared for an unexpected change is essential.
Importance of Self-Regulation
Self-regulation can be challenging but is vital as we age gracefully, says Sherry Kolodziejczak, an Occupational Therapist and Fellow of the AOTA. “Limiting or giving up driving is not something most would like to do,” she notes. “However, those who do report improved quality of life as the awareness brings peace.”
One key step in self-regulation is reviewing your health history for any physical or cognitive changes, such as vision problems, hearing loss, slowed reaction times, reduced motor skills, or memory lapses. Additionally, watch for concerning changes in driving behavior:
- Frequent “close calls” or near accidents.
- Increased dents and scrapes on the car or surrounding property.
- Getting lost more often.
- Difficulty seeing or following traffic signals and road signs.
- Misjudging gaps in traffic at intersections or highway ramps.
- Receiving multiple traffic tickets or warnings.
Seeking Professional Help
If you notice these signs, the first step is to consult your or your loved one’s doctor. Trudeau from AOTA suggests a comprehensive approach rather than focusing solely on driving. “A good functional evaluation by an occupational therapist can help identify challenges and opportunities for intervention in the various skill sets necessary for effective driving,” he explains.
A driving-specific assessment is warranted when functional status is understood and driving concerns persist. This assessment typically includes clinic-based tests to evaluate vision, movement, and cognitive abilities, followed by an on-road evaluation. Recommendations from professionals can help you create a plan, whether it involves stopping driving entirely or making adjustments like changing medications or utilizing assistive devices.
SHARE YOUR STORY: Have you had a conversation with a loved one about no longer driving? Did you stop driving after someone you love asked you to stop? Reach out to agingrewired@seniorplanet.org to share your experience.
Additional Resources and Guidance
Numerous programs and resources are available to assist you in making this crucial decision. Ensuring your safety and the safety of others is paramount.
- We Need to Talk seminar from AARP Driver Safety: Available virtually via Zoom or through an on-demand platform, this seminar will help you assess your loved ones’ driving skills and facilitate this important conversation.
- The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists: This organization can help you schedule a driving assessment.
- Local transportation agency: They may connect you with community organizations that provide transportation alternatives, such as public transit or volunteer driver programs.
- Ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Lyft.
Want to learn more about ride-sharing apps? Senior Planet is developing a brand new lecture on Lyft Silver, a streamlined version of the popular ride-share app designed for easier navigation and a smoother, more comfortable ride experience. Keep an eye on seniorplanet.org/caregiving for more information.
YOUR TURN
Have you had a discussion about senior driving with someone close to you? How did it go? Let us know in the comments.
Xavier Villarmarzo is a Communication Manager with AARP. Based in Washington, D.C., he enjoys jogging through the city’s many historical sites and making dishes from his Cuban-American culture for family and friends. He is a contributor to the Senior Planet team.
Driving is a symbol of independence for many people, and, after decades of driving, it can be easy to forget the feeling you had when you first received your driver’s license. However, there may come a point when it’s important to honestly assess whether it’s safe for you – or your loved one – to continue to drive.
Age is not the sole factor in determining driving safety; many older drivers can continue to drive safely throughout their lives. In fact, older drivers are generally safe drivers. However, various factors, such as medical conditions or changes in physical and mental abilities, can increase driving risks. Recognizing when to limit or cease driving is crucial for maintaining quality of life for yourself or a loved one.
Early Conversations
“We encourage families and loved ones to start having conversations and developing alternative transportation plans as early as possible – before there is a crisis,” says Scott A. Trudeau, PhD, Director of Practice Engagement at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). “Research suggests that most older adults will outlive their ability to drive by seven to ten years. So, setting plans and preferences in motion early is ideal.”
Initiating early conversations with loved ones helps avoid feelings of being blindsided and makes the topic more approachable. The person who starts the conversation is also significant. If you’re planning for yourself, choose trusted friends and family to help you transition. If it’s for a loved one, especially an older parent, consult other family members to identify who your loved one would be most receptive to. Start discreetly and individually, gradually including more family members over time.
Making a Plan
Once you’re comfortable discussing driving with your loved ones, keep track of where and how often you or your loved one are driving. This will help you plan for alternative transportation if driving needs to be limited or stopped. Ideally, this transition will happen gradually, but being prepared for an unexpected change is essential.
Importance of Self-Regulation
Self-regulation can be challenging but is vital as we age gracefully, says Sherry Kolodziejczak, an Occupational Therapist and Fellow of the AOTA. “Limiting or giving up driving is not something most would like to do,” she notes. “However, those who do report improved quality of life as the awareness brings peace.”
One key step in self-regulation is reviewing your health history for any physical or cognitive changes, such as vision problems, hearing loss, slowed reaction times, reduced motor skills, or memory lapses. Additionally, watch for concerning changes in driving behavior:
- Frequent “close calls” or near accidents.
- Increased dents and scrapes on the car or surrounding property.
- Getting lost more often.
- Difficulty seeing or following traffic signals and road signs.
- Misjudging gaps in traffic at intersections or highway ramps.
- Receiving multiple traffic tickets or warnings.
Seeking Professional Help
If you notice these signs, the first step is to consult your or your loved one’s doctor. Trudeau from AOTA suggests a comprehensive approach rather than focusing solely on driving. “A good functional evaluation by an occupational therapist can help identify challenges and opportunities for intervention in the various skill sets necessary for effective driving,” he explains.
A driving-specific assessment is warranted when functional status is understood and driving concerns persist. This assessment typically includes clinic-based tests to evaluate vision, movement, and cognitive abilities, followed by an on-road evaluation. Recommendations from professionals can help you create a plan, whether it involves stopping driving entirely or making adjustments like changing medications or utilizing assistive devices.
SHARE YOUR STORY: Have you had a conversation with a loved one about no longer driving? Did you stop driving after someone you love asked you to stop? Reach out to agingrewired@seniorplanet.org to share your experience.
Additional Resources and Guidance
Numerous programs and resources are available to assist you in making this crucial decision. Ensuring your safety and the safety of others is paramount.
- We Need to Talk seminar from AARP Driver Safety: Available virtually via Zoom or through an on-demand platform, this seminar will help you assess your loved ones’ driving skills and facilitate this important conversation.
- The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists: This organization can help you schedule a driving assessment.
- Local transportation agency: They may connect you with community organizations that provide transportation alternatives, such as public transit or volunteer driver programs.
- Ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Lyft.
Want to learn more about ride-sharing apps? Senior Planet is developing a brand new lecture on Lyft Silver, a streamlined version of the popular ride-share app designed for easier navigation and a smoother, more comfortable ride experience. Keep an eye on seniorplanet.org/caregiving for more information.
YOUR TURN
Have you had a discussion about senior driving with someone close to you? How did it go? Let us know in the comments.
Xavier Villarmarzo is a Communication Manager with AARP. Based in Washington, D.C., he enjoys jogging through the city’s many historical sites and making dishes from his Cuban-American culture for family and friends. He is a contributor to the Senior Planet team.
