When Is the Right Time for Seniors to Stop Driving?
From time to time, there have been serious accidents involving elderly drivers that reach the nation’s attention and reopens the debate regarding the age that elderly adults should stop driving. While some states have implemented stricter rules for seniors renewing their driver’s license, many states have met resistance or have had a hard time coming to a consensus. It is hard to assess a senior’s fitness for driving as each person is different and health problems vary immensely. One good thing is that many seniors start to self-regulate their driving habits once they notice problems.
Experts say if you have become concerned over your parent’s fitness to drive, you need to start a conversation with them. If you think they can still handle limited driving with some restrictions, talk to them about setting up rules such as avoiding major highways and rush hour, driving only in daylight and during good weather. Remind them that this will help keep them safe as well as others who share the road with them. If they have had fender benders and are having trouble following traffic signals, it may be time for them to stop driving altogether before they hurt themselves or others. However if this is the case, be sure to have some plans in place for alternative transportation.
MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers compassionate assisted living for Des Moines seniors; and provides all of the services and amenities required for their comfort, wellbeing and safety. This includes scheduled transportation to doctor visits as well as shopping trip to area stores. We routinely take field trips to local culture events, museums, parks, and more such as this month’s Memorial Day Bus Tour and a drive through Water Works. Please visit our website to learn more about our community, and while you are there, use our links to set up a tour and to ask about availability and pricing.
MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living in Des Moines.