Aging and Driving

Driving is a freedom and a privilege we hold onto dearly, it is often times an elderly person's only life line to the outside world. We've all seen the 85 year old woman that we can't believe is in the shape she's in, living a completely independent life. She may be making adjustments like deciding not to drive at night or in the rain, and staying close to home. For others, adjustments just aren't enough. 

We may be healthy overall, but age will still bring on it's own struggles. Our vision may become impaired, our hearing may not be what it used to be, and our reflexes slow down. On top of that, many medicines may cause disorientation, dizziness, or dehydration.  Arthritis makes it difficult to move our body quickly, making it challenging to slam on the brakes or turn the wheel effectively. Back or neck soreness causes difficulty when turning your heard while switching lanes. All of these things, and more, are risk factors when it comes to safe driving.

Very few people are ready and willing to give up their car keys, understandably so. If it becomes necessary, it is important to provide your loved one with alternate means of transportation. Whether that be family, a friend, or a caregiver. They may not be able to get to the grocery store on their own but they should still be given the right to do their own shopping.  Aging isn't easy and can lead to some major life adjustments so it's important to continue to live life to the fullest in new, safer ways.