Healthy Aging: When Is it Time to Hang Up the Keys?
Did you know? People aged 70 and older are more likely to crash than any other age group besides drivers age 25 and younger.
As a loved one ages, concerns about their ability to continue driving safely may arise. For many of us, driving symbolizes freedom and independence. However, it's essential to acknowledge promptly that the abilities of an aging adult can change, affecting their overall safety on the road.
Research indicates that the age at which people typically stop driving varies widely due to factors such as health, mobility, and access to alternative transportation options. Some individuals can drive competently well into their 80s and beyond, while others may face difficulties in their 60s or even earlier. Most, however, drive 7 to 10 years longer than they should.
Having a conversation with an older adult about when it might be time to stop driving can be challenging but is crucial for their safety and the safety of others on the road.
Tune in for tips and resources to help you navigate these conversations and better support the safety of your loved one.
Click to listen to this episode:
Tune in for insights and resources from Jonathan Clark, Senior Care Consultant, Owner of CarePatrol – Durham/Chapel Hill – Greensboro/Burlington.
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About Jonathan:
Jonathan Clark is a dedicated individual who embarked on his journey to help seniors over fifteen years ago. Throughout his career, he has been passionately involved with seniors, striving to make their lives better. His journey has taken him from selling essential DME equipment to offering the convenience of Stairlifts, all with the goal of helping older adults maintain their independence in the comfort of their homes.
Since 2017, Jonathan has been a CarePatrol franchisee and owns two locations in the heart of North Carolina—Durham/Chapel Hill and Greensboro/Burlington.
Jonathan considers it an absolute honor to give back to the seniors who've paved the way for us all. Each morning, he wakes up enthusiastically, eager to support our beloved seniors on their path to the next exciting chapter in their lives.
Show Notes:
- Signs that it may be time for an older adult to stop driving
- The impact of age on safe driving
- A client story of an older adult and their family highlighting a time when driving safety was impacted
- Tips to start the conversation with a parent or older adult about driving safety and when it may be time to hang up the keys
- Professionals who may help navigate challenging discussions and decisions
- Helpful resources for older adults and their family caregivers
Episode Resources:
- Taking The Keys Away From Your Aging Parents – CarePatrol
- If You're an Older Driver and Aren’t Talking Safety, You Should Be – CarePatrol
- Worried About a Family Member's Driving? – CarePatrol
- Tip Sheet: Discussing When It's Time To Stop Driving – HealthyAging.org
- We Need to Talk Online Seminar – AARP
- Evaluate Your Driving Ability – AAA
- Addressing Changes in Driving Comfort Early Can Keep Older Adults Driving Safer, Longer – AAA
- More than 80 Percent of Older Drivers Aren’t Talking About Driving Safety – AAA
