Do the Homework
Before you ask a family member to significantly restrict or stop driving, it’s important to do your homework.
- Get the facts. Use the Warning Signs Worksheet as a guide, observe your relative’s driving, and look for patterns of warning signs of future problems. In focus groups, people reported that they were more willing to listen to those who had driven with them.
- Observe the older driver behind the wheel over time. Has the driver expressed personal concerns about driving safety? Is the older driver limiting where and when he or she drives?
- Discuss your concerns with a doctor and determine what information you need to provide, given your relative’s medical conditions. Some doctors may take an active role in assessing a driver’s skills and rendering an opinion; others will refer a concerned patient to a driving rehabilitation specialist for assessment.
- Investigate the alternatives for helping older drivers
adjust to driving limitations. Consider how to satisfy
social and transportation needs when the older adult curtails
or ceases driving. Relatives may need to set aside time to
provide rides. In addition, think about increasing the frequency
of visits, outings, phone calls, and e-mails.
- Use the “Getting There” Worksheet to help you assess driving alternatives so that the older adult is not left house-bound.
- Complete the Transportation Cost Worksheet to help you and the older driver calculate the current amount of money that he or she is spending on transportation.
- Be Supportive. The transition from driver to passenger
is not always easy or smooth. Your support and understanding
is necessary before, during and after driving changes are
made.
Here are ways you can show your support: - Be patient and expect to have several conversations to achieve a balance between safety and independence.
- Know that men may require more repeat conversations than women.
- Don’t be dissuaded by initial negative reactions.
- During each conversation, share your genuine safety concerns
and desire to protect the driver’s best interests.
