Previous Page  2 / 2
Information
Show Menu
Previous Page 2 / 2
Page Background

Safety Precautions

Is It Time to Put On the Brakes & Hang Up the Keys?

Review the questions below carefully. For best results, correct the items you have checked off.

Health, Safety & Home Assessment

Many Americans have expressed concern about the safety of a loved one, due to the growing

number of older drivers and today’s driving complexities. These decisions about driving are

difficult for older Americans to make on their own.

This guide is to help bring about the conversation and assist you when the time is right to discuss

the safety of your elderly relative, loved one or friend. More information is available at your state’s

department of motor vehicle office or website.

WARNING SIGNS

Reaction time is one of the most

crucial functions to safe driving. This

slows with age, but increasing

distance between other cars and

objects may help some older drivers.

HEARING

Some hearing loss is common

among people age 65 and older.

High pitched sounds — such as

horns, sirens & train whistles —may

become less audible long before low

pitched ones do. Studies show

people who have hearing di culties

are more likely to be inattentive to

their surroundings. Family & friends

who suspect an older person doesn’t

hear well should recommend a

hearing exam & o er to go with the

older person to get one.

VISION

Good vision is essential to safe

driving. An older person may notice

di culties focusing on objects &

switching focus from near to far. The

ability to see ne detail may

diminish. Peripheral vision may also

change with age. This is signi cant,

because about 98% of what we see

when we drive is seen rst

peripherally. Driving at night may

become more di cult due to clarity

in sight issues. As we get older, we

need more light to see clearly.

Approaching headlight glare may

make it harder to adjust.

»

»

What can I, as a family member or friend,

do if I am concerned about the driving

ability & safety of someone older who

continues to drive?

First, recognize that driving is very important

as it is our primary means of getting around.

Second, if there are other family members or

friends available, talk with them to see if they

have made some of the same observations &

discuss how you may be able to help the driver.

»

»

What can family members & friends do

when a driver continues to drive against

the advice of their doctor & others?

It is best to maintain a sense of trust in

your relationship, being honest

& persistent. Encourage

the person to make

a decision to

reduce or

stop

driving as appropriate. Be aware that people

who lose the privilege of driving often feel

lonely or anxious because they have fewer

opportunities to be with friends or involved in

activities. If the person will not listen to reason,

you may want to discuss the problemwith

their doctor to find out if there are any medical

issues that should be reported.

»

»

If an older driver stops driving, what

alternative means are available?

Most metropolitan areas have alternative

means available, if you qualify. These services

can be located within your community

phone book. Be sensitive to the older person’s

feelings. Expect some emotional

reactions, and do what you

can to help them

through this

trying time.