Should Your Senior Parent Still Be Behind the Wheel?

Driving is an important part of staying independent, but aging can bring changes that make it harder to stay safe on the road. For example, vision may not be as sharp, making it difficult to read signs or judge distances. Reflexes may slow down, which can affect reaction time in sudden traffic situations. 

Stiff joints and weaker muscles can make turning the wheel or checking blind spots more difficult. 

Memory changes may also cause confusion at intersections or trouble following familiar routes. 

These natural changes don’t always mean it’s time to stop driving, but they do mean it’s important to pay attention to safety behind the wheel.

7 Warning Signs That Driving May No Longer Be Safe

Sometimes, the signs that driving is becoming dangerous are easy to miss. A few minor mistakes may not seem like a big deal, but if they add up, they could put your parent—and others on the road—at risk. Watch for these warning signs:

• Frequent close calls: If they have near misses, even if they haven’t had an accident, it could mean slower reaction times.
• Difficulty staying in the lane: Drifting into other lanes or overcorrecting can indicate vision problems or trouble with coordination.
• Missing traffic signs or lights: Ignoring stop signs, not yielding, or running red lights can mean they aren’t seeing or processing signals in time.
• Getting lost on familiar routes: If they struggle to navigate streets they’ve known for years, it may be a sign of memory or cognitive issues.
• Dents or scratches on the car: Unexplained damage could mean they’ve been in minor accidents without realizing it.
• More honking from other drivers: If they frequently receive honks or frustrated gestures, it may mean they’re driving too slowly or making unexpected moves.
• Increased anxiety behind the wheel: If they seem nervous, hesitant, or overly cautious, it could be a sign that they no longer feel confident driving.

The Role of Medical Conditions and Medications

Certain health conditions can make driving more difficult. 

Vision loss from glaucoma or cataracts can make it hard to see road signs and traffic lights. 

Arthritis can make it painful to turn the steering wheel or look over the shoulder to check blind spots. 

Memory loss or cognitive changes can cause confusion, hesitation, or trouble following directions. 

Some medications also have side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or delayed reaction times, all of which can make driving unsafe. 

Regular medical checkups and honest conversations can help determine whether it’s time to look at other transportation options.

How to Have a Conversation About Giving Up Driving

Talking about driving can be a sensitive subject. No one wants to feel like they’re losing control over their life. 

Instead of telling them what they can’t do, start by asking open-ended questions. “How do you feel when you drive at night?” or “Have you noticed any changes in how other drivers react to you?” can open the door to a conversation without making them feel defensive. 

A calm and supportive approach helps them feel heard rather than pressured. If they are resistant, a doctor’s opinion or a professional driving assessment can offer an outside perspective.

Encouraging Your Aging Parent to Accept Help

Letting go of driving can feel like a loss of freedom, but it doesn’t have to mean losing independence. Many seniors resist help because they don’t want to feel like a burden, but finding ways to make them comfortable with support can ease the transition. Offering a few options rather than forcing one solution helps them feel in control.

Alternatives like rideshare apps, senior transportation programs, or family ride schedules can show them that they still have ways to get around. If they’re worried about feeling stuck at home, setting up regular outings for errands, social events, or doctor’s appointments can help them feel reassured. 

At Always Best Care of Milwaukee, we provide transportation services so seniors can continue their daily activities without the stress of driving.

When It’s Time to Take Action

If driving has become a major safety concern and your parent refuses to stop, more steps may need to be taken. 

A professional driving evaluation can provide an unbiased assessment of their abilities. 

Sometimes, family members may need to consult with doctors or state agencies to determine whether their licenses should be reviewed. 

These conversations can be difficult, but prioritizing safety is the most important thing.

How We Support Seniors at Always Best Care of Milwaukee

At Always Best Care of Milwaukee, we understand that giving up driving is a major life change. That’s why we offer reliable transportation, companionship, and support to help seniors stay active and independent. Whether it’s getting to appointments, running errands, or simply enjoying a day out, we’re here to help make life easier.

Contact Always Best Care of Milwaukee at (262) 439-8616 to learn more and schedule your free consultation.