Driving is largely associated with freedom and independence, and many seniors are understandably reluctant to let their driving privileges go. However, changes in cognition, memory, reaction times, and mobility can significantly reduce a senior’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. Watch for these signs that it’s time to talk with your aging loved one about giving up his or her car keys.
Evidence of Near Misses
Your loved one doesn’t have to be involved in major accidents for you to recognize his or her driving abilities are worsening. Small dings and scratches on your parent’s car may be indicative of unsafe driving.
Take a look at the building structures or property features near your loved one’s parking space. Crooked mailboxes, scratched paint, and other signs of property damage could mean your loved one’s depth perception and maneuvering and handling skills have significantly diminished.
For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Cincinnati, Ohio, Assisting Hands Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.
Becoming Frustrated while Driving
It’s not uncommon for people to express frustration while driving. However, seniors may have especially elevated emotions when surrounding vehicles appear to be moving too fast or when the challenges of navigating the road become severe.
Take a short trip with your loved one in the driver’s seat to determine whether he or she is prone to frequent emotional outbursts. Constantly yelling or being yelled at by other drivers may mean your loved one can no longer safely operate a vehicle.
Experiencing Memory Loss
Diminished short-term memory can have a significant impact on senior safety, especially when driving automobiles. Your loved one should stop driving if he or she has a difficult time remembering where he or she is going and how to get there. Memory loss can make your loved one easily distracted and less responsive to unexpected events.
Even seniors who have to give up driving can still enjoy a high level of independence. Elder care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Slower Reaction Times
Not only is it important to have the ability to follow the rules of the road, but it’s also crucial to have excellent defensive driving skills. Being cut off or facing other unexpected developments requires quick and appropriate evasive action. When you ride with your loved one, pay attention to how he or she reacts to surprises on the road. Once defensive driving skills worsen, driving should be limited or alternative forms of transportation should be sought, such as hiring a caregiver to drive your loved one to important events.
Driving may not be the only safety concern you have about your parent, so you may find extra peace of mind by hiring a professional at-home caregiver. Families looking for top-rated Cincinnati at-home care providers can reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones. Assisting Hands Home Care can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. Call us today to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.