As we head into winter, you may be wondering if your driving skills have declined as you’ve gotten older. Or maybe you have concerns about how safe a senior loved one is behind the wheel of their car.
Older driver safety is an issue many people are reluctant to discuss. Driving represents freedom to most people, so hanging up the car keys permanently can be a frightening thought. It’s a situation that often leads to disagreements between parents and their adult children. However, avoiding this difficult discussion can be dangerous. That’s why December includes National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week.
The week is designed to allow aging advocates to spotlight this important issue. It also provides a time to share resources to help seniors and adult children navigate this tough topic.
Older Driver Safety: More Than Just an Issue of Age
There are many stereotypes about older drivers. Some people even believe that once you reach a certain age, the state you reside in should automatically revoke your driver’s license. However, seniors cause fewer vehicle accidents than younger drivers. That’s why age alone can’t be the deciding factor when it comes to encouraging an aging parent to stop driving.
But there are other realities of aging to keep in mind, such as vision issues, a loss of flexibility or diminished range of motion. Continuing to drive safely might be as simple as investing in a more senior-friendly vehicle or installing adaptive devices, such as pedal extenders or a swivel seat. To learn more, review Adaptive Devices Can Ease the Drive, Ride for Seniors from Cars.com.
Resources to Evaluate an Older Driver's Skills
Objectivity is essential for determining if you or a senior loved one is a safe driver. That’s difficult when it comes to your own driving or a close friend’s or family member’s skills. A few resources you will find useful for conducting an honest assessment are:
- Evaluate Your Driving Ability: On this AAA-sponsored website, you’ll find articles and tools on safety and older drivers.
- Assessing Driving Ability: This site, developed by AARP, is another one to explore. It contains resources ranging from tips for talking with a parent about driving skills to fitness exercises that improve safety.
Senior Transportation Alternatives
Should you or your older family member decide that it’s time to give up driving, it's important to know what alternatives are available. This is especially important if family doesn’t live nearby or loved ones work during the daytime. By creating a list of transportation solutions, you can help an adult who is giving up their keys preserve a sense of independence.
Start by calling the nearest Agency on Aging location. These organizations often maintain a list of senior-friendly transportation providers. They range from retirees who volunteer their services to public transportation options and private, affordable van services.
Some ridesharing companies are making their services easier for older adults to utilize. Lyft Healthcare, for example, is trying to cater to senior passengers, including those with mobility challenges. The app allows riders to request a vehicle big enough to accommodate a wheelchair or walker during the ride. They have partnerships with area senior care organizations to make transportation easier and more accessible.
Transportation at PSL Communities
You'll find many PSL communities offer transportation options. These range from assistance with appointments to group outings. Giving up the keys is much easier when you are a resident of a PSL campus—and that’s just one of the advantages. Download our free guide, How Life Plan Communities Enrich Lives, to learn more!
