Nothing feels more liberating than taking a car out on a wide-open road, rolling the windows down and letting the wind rush across your face. Whether it’s a long road trip or a drive to the grocery store, being able to take control of the wheel brings independence, something that is hard to give up. But the hard truth of aging is that changes happen that make driving less safe the older we get.
The statistics are staggering. The age groups reported most likely to get into a car accident are young people under 25 and people age 70 and older. In addition, frail bones and poor reflexes lead to a greater number of fatal car crashes in older adults. The rate of fatal car accidents per mile driven is higher for drivers aged 85 and older than for any other age group.
While younger drivers are inexperienced, for older drivers accidents happen from a feeling of overestimating their abilities. As we age, our reflexes aren’t as quick as when we were younger. And also, hearing and vision loss can make it harder to drive safely.
Signs it’s Time to Reduce Driving
It’s important to keep in mind everyone ages differently. There isn’t a set age where doctors or the DMV say you have to give up your license. Therefore, it’s up to you and your loved ones to be aware of some of the things to look for to start making decisions about smarter driving habits.
· Other drivers are honking at you more often
· You’re having more fender-bender type incidents
· You have trouble staying in your lane
· You get lost, even on roads you know
· Driving causes you anxiety
Alternative Options
Just because you or your loved one might not be as quick behind the wheel as they once were, it might not mean it’s time to take away the keys altogether. You might be able to ease into it, by limiting driving to daytime only, and sticking to familiar roads or taking a route that avoids interstate travel.
When it is time to quit driving altogether, you can find good resources for having the conversation on AARP’s website and the We Need to Talk webinar.
Then be sure to have plenty of options available to remain active. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are easy to use and more convenient in the Winston-Salem area than traditional taxis. You might also depend on a network of family and friends.
Piedmont Home Care can also be a good resource for your loved one as they age and are able to drive less. Our caregivers are trained to be able to help with daily living activities. Part of that can include driving to doctor appointments or helping get to social activities.
If you feel it might be time for your loved one to restrict their driving, we can be a great resource. Call Piedmont Home Care today to learn more about our services and how we can help you have this very important conversation.
