When you get together with family only once or twice a year, it can be a surprise to see how they are doing. In some cases, they might have new friends, activities or plans. In other scenarios, an elder loved one may have some new challenges.
Driving a car requires a constellation of skills coming together: good eyesight, knowledge of rules of the road, ability to react quickly and stay alert. As people age, live with a chronic illness or experience side effects from medications, these driving skills can be affected and even impaired.
Take a look at our infographic for some of the warning signs that it might be time to take away Mom or Dad’s car keys. If any of these apply to your loved one, consider doing the following:
- Have a conversation in which you express concern and provide facts. You may want to schedule an appointment with their health care provider to get an authoritative third party involved.
- Talk about how driving safely affects not only the driver but everyone else on the road—it’s not just about them.
- Research transportation alternatives from local bus service to professional in-home care, then share this information.
Take a closer look at this infographic to learn more about the warning signs to look for when in the car with an elderly loved one.
