One of the most critical aspects of senior safety is knowing when it is time for seniors to stop driving. Seniors may be at a higher risk of being involved in a car accident, and driving too late into retirement can be very dangerous. Seniors can maintain their independence by using public transportation or utilizing transportation services. At Buckner Retirement Services, we know how difficult it can be for seniors to adjust after they stop driving.
Our onsite amenities, in addition to our transportation services, can help make the adjustment much more accessible. To learn more about our amenities and services, call us today at 214.227.7182 to better understand the signs of when seniors should stop driving.
Recognizing the Signs It’s Time to Stop Driving
So when should seniors stop driving? At Buckner Retirement Services, we’ve identified three signs that it’s time for your parent to consider other forms of transportation.
1. Getting Lost in Familiar Areas
One of the most common signs seniors should stop driving is forgetting directions or getting lost in areas they know well. Examples could include getting lost on the way home or to commonly visited locations like the grocery store or a friend’s house. When seniors begin experiencing memory issues, driving can quickly become dangerous. Seniors may forget where they are and end up far away from home.
Seniors may also forget more than just directions. They may forget to stop at stop signs or use their turning signal. If you notice your parent getting lost while driving, it’s time to consider other transportation options.
2. Frequent Accidents or Close Calls
Drivers of any age can get into a car accident. However, seniors are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident. Frequent accidents or near accidents are a good indicator that it is time to stop driving. If your parent has been involved in a single accident, it is probably not something to worry about. However, if they’ve been involved in more than one in a short period or if they have had many close calls, it may be time to have a conversation about no longer driving.
3. Frequent Damage to Vehicles
Colliding with another vehicle is not the only risk to seniors on the road. Seniors are also at a higher risk of being involved in a single-vehicle accident and colliding with fixed objects like signs, poles, and buildings. If you notice lots of scrapes, dents, or other damage to your parent’s car, that’s a good indicator that their driving skills are starting to slip.
What to Do When You See the Signs Seniors Should Stop Driving
If you were wondering, “When should seniors stop driving?” you know three signs to look out for. But what happens when you recognize these signs? The next step is having a conversation with your parent about their driving. Some parents will be more open to the discussion, while others may be more resistant. Here are some tips to keep in mind before having the conversation about driving:
- Come prepared
- Respectfully listen
- Acknowledge emotions
- Offer options
- Be sensitive
- Be supportive
Many parents know that their driving is unsafe and may even welcome exploring new transportation options. As long as you approach the subject with caution and compassion, everyone should be able to come to an agreeable and safe solution.
Transportation Options at Buckner Retirement Services
At Buckner Retirement Services, we know how important transportation is to maintain senior independence. That’s why we offer transportation services to help seniors get where they need to go without driving. Understanding some of the signs of when should seniors stop driving can help your loved one and others. To learn more about our transportation options and other amenities, call us today at 214.227.7182.