Should Your Aging Parent Still Be Driving?

Driving represents freedom and independence for many older adults, but as we age, physical and cognitive changes can affect the ability to drive safely. If you’re concerned about your aging parent’s driving abilities, it’s important to recognize potential warning signs that it may be time to rethink their driving situation. Continuing to drive when it is no longer safe can put both your loved one and others on the road at serious risk. Here are some common signs that may indicate it’s time for a conversation about giving up the keys.

New Scratches or Dents on the Car

Frequent fender benders, unexplained scratches, or new dents on the car could be red flags. These incidents may point to lapses in attention, difficulty parking, or poor judgment while maneuvering in traffic.

Declining Vision

Good vision is essential for safe driving. If your parent has trouble reading road signs, seeing traffic lights, or driving at night due to glare or poor eyesight, their ability to react quickly to changing road conditions may be compromised. Regular eye exams are crucial, but even with corrective lenses, some visual impairments can make driving unsafe.

Memory Problems or Confusion

Forgetfulness, disorientation, or getting lost on familiar routes are signs that cognitive changes may be affecting your parent’s driving skills. Dementia and other memory-related conditions can significantly impair decision-making and reaction times behind the wheel.

Decreased Mobility and Slower Reaction Times

Stiff joints, arthritis, or general physical decline can reduce mobility and make it difficult for older adults to turn their necks, grip the steering wheel, or press the gas and brake pedals effectively. Slow reaction times also increase the likelihood of accidents, especially in fast-moving traffic or emergencies.

Difficulty Turning the Neck to Look Behind

Safe driving requires the ability to check blind spots and turn fully to look before changing lanes or backing up. If your parent struggles with this motion due to neck or back stiffness, their driving safety may be compromised.

Medication Side Effects

Many medications come with warnings about dizziness, drowsiness, or slowed reaction times. Older adults often take multiple medications, increasing the risk of side effects that can impair driving. Review medications regularly with a healthcare provider to understand their potential impact on driving ability.

What You Can Do

It’s important to approach the topic of driving with empathy and respect. Express your concerns clearly, focusing on safety for your parent and others on the road. Consider the following steps:

• Suggest a Professional Driving Evaluation: Many communities offer driving assessments through occupational therapy programs or local DMV offices. A neutral professional can provide an unbiased evaluation of your parent’s driving skills.
• Explore Alternative Transportation: Help your parent find safe and reliable alternatives, such as ride sharing services, community transportation programs, or family carpooling. Maintaining mobility and independence without driving is possible with thoughtful planning.

Partner with Always Best Care for Safety and Support

Navigating driving safety can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. An in-home caregiver can assist with transportation needs, ensuring your parent gets to appointments, errands, and social activities safely. They can also help with medication management, reducing the risks of side effects that could impact driving. Contact Always Best Care at (855) 470-2273 to schedule a care consultation and explore how we can support your family’s safety and peace of mind.