Talking With Older Drivers

Is It Time To Put The Brakes On And Hang Up The Keys?
The growing number of older drivers and today's driving complexities has increased the concern expressed by many Americans about the safety of a loved one.  Decisions about driving are difficult for older Americans to make on their own.  When is the right time to discuss the safety of your elderly relative, loved one, or friend?

The Warning Signs
Mental
Reaction time is one of the most crucial functions to safe driving.  This slows with age, but increasing distance between other cars and objects may help some older drivers.

Vision
Good vision is essential to safe driving.  An older person may notice difficulties focusing on objects and switching focus from near to far.  The ability to see fine detail may diminish.  Peripheral vision may also change with age.  This is significant, since about 98% of what we see when we drive is seen first peripherally.  Driving at night may also become more difficult due to clarity in sight issues.  As we get older, we need more light to see clearly.  Approaching headlight glare may make it harder to adjust to.

Hearing
Some hearing loss is common among people age 65 and older.  High pitched sounds may become less audible long before low pitched ones do.  This is important because horns, sirens, and train whistles are high pitched.  Studies show people who have hearing difficulties are more likely to be inattentive to their surroundings.  Family and friends who suspect an older person doesn't hear well should recommend a hearing exam and offer to go with the older person to get one.

Q's & A's
What can I, as a family member or friend, do if I am concerned about the driving ability and safety of someone older who continues to drive?

First, recognize that driving is very important as it is our primary means of getting around.  Second, if there are other family members or friends available, talk with them to see if they have made some of the same observations and discuss how you may be able to help the driver.

What can family members and friends do when a driver continues to drive against the advice of their doctor and others?

It is best to maintain a sense of trust in your relationship.  Be honest and persistent.  Encourage the person to make a decision to reduce or stop driving as appropriate.  Be aware that persons who lose the privilege of driving often feel lonely or anxious because they have fewer opportunities to be with friends or involved in activities.  If the person will not listen to reason, you may want to discuss the problem with their doctor to find out if there are any medical reasons that should be reported.

If an older driver stops driving, what alternative means are available?

Most metropolitan areas have alternative means available.  These services can be located within your community phone book.  Be sensitive to the older person's feelings.  Expect some emotional reactions, and do what you can do to help them through this trying time.

Caring Compassionate Understanding Is A Perfect Prescription For Life.
It is important to understand that even after taking steps to correct diminished eyesight or hearing, and after successfully avoiding adverse reactions to medication, an older person still may not feel comfortable behind the wheel.  Encourage the older person to discuss this with you, another family member, friend, or doctor.  As a familiy member or friend, you must be sensitive to this insecurity and help your elder loved one.

Let Us Help!

Seniors who should no longer be driving are often reluctant to stop because they fear losing their independence, and their ability to go shopping, run errands, visit friends, or make doctor's appointments.  At Visiting Angels® we have professional caregivers who can help seniors with all these activities, as well as providing other assistance around their home.

Contact Us Today 

The Tampa Bay area of Florida has a large population of driving senior citizens, and, in some cases, these seniors may be posing a threat to themselves and others by remaining on the road.  If you have a concern about a loved one who continues to drive, and perhaps should not be, don't hesitate to contact us.  We can provide further information or arrange for a free no-obligation assessment.  Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is available to walk you through any questions or concerns you might have.  Call us at either 813-909-2550 or 727-841-8440, or, if you prefer, send an email to wecare@visitingangelstampabay.com and we'll get in contact with you.