Driving Safety Tips for Seniors

From the time we get our driver's license, driving plays a huge role in someone’s independence. However, as we age, we must remember to prioritize safety before getting behind the wheel. Here are some tips on how you can help your loved one stay safe on the road:

1. Get Eyes Checked Regularly - Our eyes are one of our most important tools for driving safely. An annual eye exam can identify vision problems early so that corrective lenses may be prescribed. It’s also a helpful tool for catching age-related eye diseases that can lead to decreased vision or blindness.
   
   
2. Understand How Medical Conditions or Medications May Impact Driving Ability - Vision changes are not the only medical conditions impacting someone’s driving ability. Individuals with dementia may have difficulty remembering where they’re going or how to get there, while someone with Parkinson’s may not have the motor control necessary to drive safely. In addition, the side effects of any new medications should be considered when deciding whether or not it is safe to drive. Drowsiness is a common symptom of many medicines that could be deadly.
   
   
3. Embrace Driver Assist Technology - Many new cars boast driver assist technology such as automatic braking and lane assist. While drivers should not rely on these features, they can help reduce accidents when used properly.
   
   

It’s Time to Stop Driving: How to Talk with Your Parent

There may come a time when you realize it is no longer safe for your loved one to drive. Accepting this can be a big pill to swallow, especially for someone accustomed to being independent.

The best way to approach this conversation is to choose a time when you are calm and clearly outline your concerns without getting emotional. You should expect there to be some pushback from your parent - it’s only natural to say, “I’m fine” or “Don’t worry about me.” Work together to address concerns and adjustments you can make to meet transportation needs without compromising safety.

Adding a home health aide to your caregiving team can greatly help in these situations. A home health aide can provide transportation to doctor’s appointments and assist with errands, reducing the need for your loved one to drive. To learn more about how Comforting Home Care can help your family, call us at 610.365.4206!