The feeling of being able to jump in our cars and drive wherever we want is something we enjoy, and also take for granted at times.  We are a society very dependent on our vehicles as a means of transportation, and we enjoy the independence that comes with the driver's seat.  Last summer, I was unable to drive for several months because of an injury, and I found myself very frustrated and irritable.  Not being able to drive myself to the grocery, or to doctor's appointments, or to pick up my kids, was torture.  I had a small taste of what many seniors and families face daily: the loss of driving privileges and independence.

In some cases, there may be no option but for your loved one to give up driving and find an alternative means of transportation.  When serious driving risks arise, evaluation of driving abilities must take place as your loved one's and other's safety must be a priority.  However, there may be some modifications you can take to remain driving safely.  Consider:

• Find the right car.  To make driving more manageable, choose a vehicle with an automatic transmission, and power steering and brakes.  Make sure the windows and headlights are always clean and regular vehicle maintenance is done on schedule.

• Give yourself plenty of room.  Keep at least 2-3 car lengths behind the car in front of you to allow plenty of time to stop in an emergency.  Drive the speed limit, and if you find cars in the right hand lane passing you, move over to the slower lane of travel to allow those vehicles to pass.

• Avoid distractions.  Make sure the road has your full attention by not eating or drinking anything while you are driving.  Avoid changing the radio station, or reaching into the glovebox for a tissue, or map.  Do not talk on a cell phone while driving.  If you need to use your cell phone, pull over to a safe area such as a parking lot, turn off the vehicle, and then use the phone.  Even turning around to look at someone in the passenger or back seat is enough of a distraction to cause a driving mistake.

• Drive only in situations where you are comfortable.  If you have trouble seeing at nightime or dusk, limit your driving to daytime hours.  If heavy traffic, or fast moving traffic makes you nervous, drive on less traveled roadways and avoid the interstate.  Avoid driving in bad weather such as snow or ice.

• See a doctor for regular exams.  Make sure you are in the best physical condition that you can be, and ask your doctor about any concerns you may have about your driving.  Have your vision and hearing checked and don't be embarrassed to finally get those hearing aids, and a new prescription for glasses. 

• Make sure you get plenty of sleep.  Drive only when you are welll rested, and if you feel yourself becoming drowsy while driving, pull over to a safe area and stop driving, or have someone else drive for you.

These are just a few suggestions that may help you or a loved one remain an independent and safe driver.  However, in some circumstances, continued driving may not be possible anymore.  This a delicate topic to discuss as many individuals see the loss of driving as a loss of freedom and independence.  With other options of transportation available, such as public transit, or assistance from friends and family members, relinquishing the car keys doesn't have to mean a complete lifestyle change.  With some TLC, additional resources and understanding, you can help your loved one safely make the transition from driver to passenger.

Remember, every day, families just like yours and mine are facing a health care crisis with a loved one.  The support and education you need to navigate the aging journey is available at your finger tips from expert care professionals at Lutheran Homes of Michigan.  For more information on dealing with a life changing issue with your parents or a loved one, contact a care representative at Lutheran Homes of Michigan by calling 989-652-3470 or by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Resources

http://helpguide.org/elder/senior_citizen_driving.htm

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