Nearly every day we hear from family members who are either concerned about their aging loved one’s ability to keep driving, or looking for transportation options to help get them where they need to go. Age by itself is not an indication of driving ability, although crash statistics do begin to rise as people age. Many older adults stop driving because of health conditions, medications, or a natural decline in their functional abilities such as their cognitive, visual and physical abilities. Changes are often subtle and come on gradually.
Some clues as to when a person may no longer be safe to drive include: repeated fender benders or near misses, being honked at often, getting lost on familiar routes, reacting slowly to driving situations, new medical conditions, or making poor driving decisions. Some abilities and medical conditions can be compensated for through training or special equipment. However cognitive changes, resulting from dementia for example, can seriously impact a person’s judgment and can put them and others on the road at risk.
Preparing for and talking about driving retirement is as important as financial retirement, power of attorney and end of life planning. It is wise to start the conversation about driving before there is a problem and it is important to develop a transportation plan for the future. When talking with a loved one about driving, you should remain respectful and specific. Use phrases like “I am concerned about your safety when you are driving”, “I noticed some new dents on the car, is everything okay?”, or, “I read an article on older driver safety and it had some interesting points.” If you are uncomfortable discussing driving issues and you think your loved one is unsafe, discuss your concerns with their physician.
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There are many ways for seniors to evaluate their driving skills. The following web sites offer evaluations: The following web sites offer evaluations: www.aarp.org, www.aaafoundation.com, and www.aaaseniors.com. AARP and AAA Michigan also offer classroom refresher courses that are low cost and confidential. For certain medical conditions, or for physical disabilities that may require adaptive equipment in a car, physicians may refer drivers to an occupational therapist for a driving evaluation. This is a very thorough process, and involves a variety of visual, physical and cognitive tests, as well as a road evaluation. It is often costly, and is not confidential.
myride2 is a new service that helps seniors and adults with disabilities find transportation options either online at www.myride2.com, or over the phone by calling toll free at 855-myride2 (855-697-4332). When you call myride2, a trained mobility specialist will work with you and local transportation providers to find the best options for you. The service is free however, there are costs for the transportation itself. myride2, developed by the Area Agency on Aging 1-B, is available to seniors and persons with disabilities who live in Macomb, Oakland or Western Wayne County.
