Silver and Gold Magazine Spring 2017 | Page 24

Through the Door Support for Seniors & People with Special Needs
24 More articles , recipes & events online : www . silvergoldmagazine . ca oakville @ drivingmissdaisy . net www . drivingmissdaisy . ca
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WELL-BEING

The Comfort of Independence

– By Michael D . Walker
Life challenges all of us at some time or another . We get older and may start to experience mobility issues . Our eye sight is not what it once was , especially at night . We have gone for our driver ’ s license test and were told we must stop driving . All these life challenges begin to take away our independence .
As well , our families are busy with their own lives or they have moved away and are not always as available to support you . More than the inconvenience that the loss of driving creates , there are issues with self worth , loneliness , and the thought that we may be burdensome . You are not alone and your situation is more common than you think !
Recently , Mom called and she was a little upset . She decided to give up her car as she was getting a little older and was having more trouble dealing with traffic , and driving in bad weather . What makes her a little sad is that it is harder to get around now for outings , shopping and medical appointments . My siblings and I can ’ t be around all the time to help her out , plus I am two thousand miles away from her ! She regrets the loss of her independence and doesn ’ t like taking the residence ’ s bus all the time .
A week went by and I wonder how she was doing , so I phoned her :
“ I am sorry to have missed your calls but I have been out quite a bit ... I have found a new care / transportation service that picks me up , takes me shopping and to my doctor appointments , plus they stay with me the whole time !” she says .
“ I really appreciate the little chats that we have … the driver has become wonderful company for me . It ’ s a real treat … and she comes whenever I need to go out – I don ’ t have to wait for the bus . I am feeling more in control of my life once again . And I don ’ t miss my car as much anymore . It is nice to have a personal chauffeur ! I feel like the lady in that movie … What was it ? Driving Miss Daisy !”
Sometimes knowing that our family members have their independence and are feeling happy is a great comfort . And sometimes it ’ s up to us to encourage them to “ try new things ,” because the outcome can sure be a positive one ! •
Michael Walker is the Oakville area franchisee for Driving Miss Daisy . 905-339-6831

Celebrating Our First Anniversary !

Through the Door Support for Seniors & People with Special Needs

◊ medical & dental appointments ◊ alzheimer ’ s companionship ◊ grocery & personal shopping ◊ community programs & activities

905-399-6831

24 More articles , recipes & events online : www . silvergoldmagazine . ca oakville @ drivingmissdaisy . net www . drivingmissdaisy . ca