FEATURE
The difficult conversation
When ( and how ) to talk about turning over the car keys
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Provided by AARP
Whether it ’ s the driving of a spouse , a parent or another loved one , there may come a time in your life when you begin to question whether a loved one is still safe to drive . But how do you know when it ’ s time for your loved one to limit or stop driving ?
Although there are natural changes that may occur in our brains and to our bodies as we age , the question of when it is time to limit or stop driving is not about age . It ’ s about the ability of the driver . To this end , observing the driving of the loved one about whom you are concerned and looking for warning signs of unsafe driving is a great first step in determining whether it ’ s time to talk to them about hanging up the keys . As we all know , driving ability goes beyond the simple ability to physically operate a vehicle . Safely driving a vehicle requires physical and cognitive capabilities , driving skills and good driving behavior . Here are only a few warning signs of unsafe driving :
• Delayed response to unexpected situations
• Becoming easily distracted while driving
• Decrease in confidence while driving
• Having difficulty moving into or maintaining the correct lane of traffic
• Hitting curbs when making right turns or backing up
• Getting scrapes or dents on the car , garage or mailbox
• Having frequent close calls
• Driving too fast or too slow for road conditions If you ’ ve noticed that your loved one shows some of these warning signs , it means it is time to talk with them . But how are you supposed to sensitively broach the topic of stopping or limiting driving and have a productive conversation ?
First , it ’ s important to remember that limiting or stopping driving is a complex and emotionally charged discussion . Older drivers have a lifetime of driving experience behind them and deeply value the independence and mobility that driving provides .
Preparing for the conversation with “ We Need to Talk ,” a free online seminar developed jointly with the Hartford and MIT AgeLab , can help guide you through what steps to take . Beyond providing you with tools to begin a casual conversation about driving and tips on engaging an older driver in self-evaluation , “ We Need to Talk ” can also help you with possible solutions for your loved one ’ s transportation needs — helping your loved one maintain their independence and relieving some of the pressure on you as the caregiver .
To learn more about “ We Need to Talk ” and AARP ’ s other safe transportation programs , visit aarp . org / drive .
About AARP
• AARP is a nonprofit , nonpartisan organization with membership for people age 50 and over .
• AARP is dedicated to enhancing quality of life for all as we age . We lead positive social change and deliver value to members through information , advocacy and service .
• AARP also provides a wide range of unique benefits , special products , and services for our members .
• To reach AARP Mississippi , call 866-554-5382 or visit the website www . aarp . org / ms
32 • TIMELESS MERIDIAN