December holds a week dedicated nationally to Older Driver Safety Awareness. Driving carries inherent risk to anyone with a license and a car, but most certainly greater risk exists for the elderly population. The aging process means eventual decline in both physical and cognitive health that can become an impairment to safe driving, but there are some innovative ideas to help them be safer behind the wheel.
For example, there are mirror adapters that help elders have a broader view of the road around them especially if they have trouble turning their shoulders or head. A pedal adapter can also be installed in an older person’s car which helps them reach the pedals easier without having to move their seat too close to the wheel, which is a crash risk. For those elderly persons who find it difficult to rotate their body to put on their seatbelt, there is a seatbelt pull to make it easier. And for those who have difficulty getting in and out of their car, they can install a car seat swivel cushion.
But eventually, it becomes necessary to consider the option of giving up driving. Some of the signs that suggest it is time to take the keys include getting lost easily, ignoring traffic signs or other drivers’ right of way, to name a few. A study conducted by the state of Colorado concluded that “older adults can expect to outlive their ability to drive safely by seven to 10 years.”
For the caretaker who finds it necessary to take their loved one’s keys away from them, it can be an especially challenging task both emotionally and physically for both the elder and the caretaker. It means convincing them that driving is a thing of the past as well as becoming the driver for them. But there are ways to make the conversation and eventual transition go smoothly.
It is best to start the conversation before safe driving actually becomes an issue. This ‘hypothetical’ discussion weeds out the emotional reaction and plants the seed for tougher conversations to come. Remind them that Florida state laws requires driver license renewal every six years for residents aged 80 and older, and they must appear in person. They can go to certain medical professionals for the vision portion of the test, and must submit a Mature Driver Vision Test form (HSMV 72119 S) to the state. Key to your discussion is respect and open-mindedness. Avoid any criticism and tell your loved one you want to help them find other ways to maintain their independence. If they insist they are safe drivers offer to bring them for a driving test for an objective assessment. And remember that - when you aready - BrightStar Care offers companion care services that include transportation to help with errands and shopping.
Above all, be sure to remind that it’s better that your loved one - and other drivers on the road - be safe and alive and avoid the risks of injury to themselves or someone else.
You can find out more about the state of Florida’s licensing requirements here www.flhsmv.gov.