Aging is a natural part of life. Unfortunately, this can come with noticeable changes in our response time. This being a result of some of the depletion experienced with aging. This change can affect our physical and cognitive skills and this infographic demonstrates how this can be recognized in order to have the conversation about driving retirement as it pertains to safety.
Driving has long been a way to define our independence. The idea of being able to pick up and leave any time is a form of luxury that has been enjoyed since the legal driving limit. It comes to no surprise that having this luxury removed from your life would be a difficult adjustment.
What to look for
Although the conversation of driving retirement can be a difficult one, your concern for your loved one should arise if you’ve noticed problems such as slow response time, forgetfulness, medical conditions that would make driving unsafe, or a sharp decline in their ability to drive.
Let’s have a conversation
Just as we parent our teenage drivers about the importance of safe driving, it is also important to be prepared to talk to our elders about their driving habits. One helpful topic to discuss can be found from the AAA Foundation which found that more than 200,000 drivers at least 65 years old were injured and more than 3500 were killed in traffic incidents in the year 2016. Making the conversation about your concern for their safety and the safety of others is an important place to start.
When should you start
Having the talk with your elderly driver should happen sooner than later. Start the conversation with a focus on moving forward in life. The infographic also explains that this doesn’t have to be one conversation. In fact, this is talk can be an ongoing conversation if you start talking early enough.
Another point to remember as mentioned, is to ensure that your loved on plays their part in the decision-making of driver retirement. If they’re aware of alternative expressed by you, the might be more accepting of the change. Some of the alternatives could include transportation programs. You could also consider the opportunity to schedule rides around the family’s schedule. Either way, your senior will be able to spend time with others, including the family.
It’s important to consider the effects of aging as you think about the safety of your loved ones. Aging can be viewed as a gift, but it must be taken seriously as your elderly loved one looks forward to the next chapter of the life. Having a conversation about the well-being of your loved one should come from place of concern if you’re noticing the signs of potential safety implications. Be sure to keep the conversation open and value their input with the decision-making process. Also, include all options of alternative options so that they have a clear understanding.
Infographic Source: https://www.phoenixlawteam.com/blog/driver-retirement/