A recent conversation with a friend reminded me how difficult it can be to consider that it may be time for a senior to give up driving. She wondered how much driving affords us all in remaining active and vital in life and the negative effects discontinuing driving might have on an elder.
Remaining active and engaged in one’s community is vital to well-being. Social engagement plays a role in life satisfaction and isolation is a risk factor for elderly depression. However, fatalities rates increase among elderly drivers and it is important to understand how health and mobility issues impact one’s continued safety on the road. So, how do we mitigate the potential negative effects of discontinuing driving when it becomes the safest choice for a senior?
Planning is a vital step in this transition process. Simply removing one’s car and freedom of movement will likely have negative consequences. There are a variety of senior transportation options, however. Family and friends can work together to create a schedule of outings and assisting the elder who no longer drives, but often a senior doesn’t want to be completely dependent on those family and friends. The elder’s loved ones can help navigate the various transportation options, or consult with one of our geriatric care managers to locate resources.
A home health caregiver is an ideal solution for many seniors and their families. Hiring a licensed home care company provides screened, supervised workers, with the protections of the employer handling insurance, taxes, scheduling and management. A home caregiver can be set up on your schedule, to provide transportation as well as physical assistance or help around the home for an occasional need, one day/week or several times/week.
Contact us today for senior driving services and a FREE consultation! Share our Drive to Thrive Services with someone you know who could benefit.
