Elderly Drivers Battle Aging Challenges to Stay on the Road Safely

Jenny Nordine, an occupational therapist and certified driver rehabilitation specialist with Driving to Independence, emphasizes the necessity of discussing driving skills with senior loved ones early on. Aging can significantly impair driving abilities, transforming an everyday task into a safety risk. But as Nordine points out, seniors are unlikely to relinquish their keys without resistance.

Addressing an audience in Oro Valley during an event titled “Taking the Keys Away … Keeping Our Seniors and Community Safe,” Nordine provided actionable strategies. She noted that seniors might drive too slowly, disobey road signs, or struggle to interpret traffic situations. These changes can lead to frustration, confusion, and an increased likelihood of getting lost.

Family members and caregivers can assess seniors’ driving abilities by observing specific behaviors. Questions to consider include: Do they wear seat belts? Do they frequently speed? Are they often honked at? Do they remain aware of other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists? Addressing these issues requires a delicate touch. Nordine advises discussing concerns at home, using phrases like, “I am concerned about your safety when driving,” rather than more accusatory language.

Any conversation about driving can provoke a negative response. “Any lifestyle change is difficult,” Nordine said. “Your loved one may become defensive and upset.” Nicole Smith, author of “Diagnosis Dementia: Your Guide for Eldercare Planning and Crisis Management,” echoes this sentiment, suggesting that using “I” statements instead of “you” can make the conversation less accusatory and more loving.

Starting the conversation early and planning for safety before issues arise is crucial. Nordine recommends exploring transportation alternatives and using delivery services for essentials such as groceries and prescriptions.

Mark Goldstein, marketing director and clinical liaison for Senior Helpers, often encounters distressing stories involving seniors who insist on driving despite evident cognitive impairments. “I hear so many stories about seniors driving and not knowing where they are,” he said, noting how loved ones sometimes resort to hiding car keys or disabling vehicles to prevent accidents.

Clinicians like Nordine are trained to assess and counsel senior drivers. Driving to Independence offers comprehensive safety assessments that evaluate medical history, driving goals, vision, cognition, and other factors related to driving skills. This service provides an independent opinion, crucial for seniors looking to confirm their driving capabilities.

Driving to Independence serves not only seniors but also individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, strokes, neurological disorders, neuropathy, low vision, and learning disabilities. The organization’s mission is clear: “Facilitate mobility and independence in the community through safe driver skills,” underscoring the societal importance of maintaining the ability to drive safely.

“Driving to Independence is an excellent resource in evaluating and training both teens and seniors,” noted Smith. “I am grateful we avoided any major incidents before mom was forced off the road.”

For more information, visit their website at drivingtoindependence.com.

During the workshop, guests engaged in activities designed to underscore the importance of safe driving, including sitting on motorized vehicles with the keys removed for added safety, a detail that Senior Helpers’ Goldstein found particularly amusing.

Tags: #Safety #wheel #Seniors #driving #aging #creates #risks