senior As we age, and watch our loved ones grow older, it’s important to think about - and plan for - a time when we may no longer be able to drive. But how do we decide when it’s time to transition from driver to passenger? In addition to creating practical challenges, giving up driving may stir feelings of anger, frustration, isolation and depression, so it is not to be taken lightly. With the significance of driving in mind, family members can help older drivers make the transition from driver to passenger. But how do you initiate the difficult conversation? The experts at AARP Driver Safety and The Hartford offer some advice. First, help older drivers stay safe behind the wheel for as long as possible. Adult children can help aging parents regularly maintain their vehicles. And if it’s time for a new car, adult children can help identify choices with new technologies that can enhance safe driving, like reverse monitoring systems. Older drivers can brush up on their driving skills with AARP Driver Safety’s course, which is specifically designed to help people 50 and older refresh their driving skills. To find a classroom course near you, call (888) 227- 7669, or visit www.aarp.org/findacourse; or sign up for an online course. Courses are available in English or Spanish. Second, family members should observe an older loved one’s driving by taking a ride as passenger and keeping an eye out for warning signs. It’s important to look for changes in driving abilities. These signs include: • Frequent “close calls” or near-crashes • Unexplained dents or scrapes on vehicles, fences, mailboxes, garage doors, etc. • Getting lost, even in familiar locations • Difficulty seeing or following traffic signals, road signs and pavement markings • Slower responses to unexpected situations, trouble moving the driving foot from the gas to the brake, and confusing the two pedals • Experiencing road rage or inspiring it in other drivers • Easily becoming distracted while driving • Difficulty turning around to check the rear view while backing up or changing lanes Receiving multiple tickets or warnings from law enforcement officers. Third, if you notice a pattern of warning signs and an increase in frequency, then it’s time to initiate a conversation. It’s important to choose the right time, place and messenger. “Avoid bringing up the topic of driving during family gatherings. Instead, look for a quiet, private time when all parties involved will have privacy and minimal distractions. If it’s time to initiate a conversation with a parent or spouse about driving, AARP Driver Safety’s “We Need to Talk” seminar can help. Developed based on information created jointly by The Hartford and MIT AgeLab, the free, online seminar helps caregivers and those with an older loved one initiate productive and caring conversations about driving safety. To take the free seminar, visit www. aarp.org/weneedtotalk, and to download or order a free guidebook, visit www.thehartford.com/lifetime. Courtesy BPT Advice for coping with older drivers living YOU DESERVE THE EXPERTS! • American Physical Therapy Association Certified Geriatric Specialist • American Physical Therapy Association Certified Exercise Experts for Aging Adults • Pelvic Floor/ Girlde Rehabilitation Specialist Call (516) 488-8808 today to schedule your evaluation. st347)242-3200 1999 Marcus Avenue Suite M15, Lake Success, NY 11042 and 69-61 Grand Avenue, Maspeth, NY 11378 www.AgeWellPT.com “No other facility can top AgeWell.” E. Hendrics, Queens NY of the 2013 THE QUEENS QueensCourier.com Place
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