Your job as your senior’s family caregiver is always keeping her as safe as she can be. That includes knowing when it’s time for her to stop driving if she’s nearing that point. Here are some things for you to consider as you and your aging family member prepare to talk more about when she should give up driving.

Don’t Second Guess Yourself

If you feel bad about even suggesting your senior stops driving, you’re not alone. Most family caregivers do not feel good about this conversation at all. In fact, you might even start to convince yourself that whatever is causing you to be worried is in your imagination or isn’t accurate. Don’t second guess yourself. If you’re seeing even small signs that your elderly family member shouldn’t be driving, you can’t avoid that talk.

Talk to Your Senior

Next you have to brace yourself and talk with your aging family member about what you’re seeing. It’s a good idea to avoid anything that sounds as if you’re accusing her of anything, but do be honest. Let her know that you’re worried and that you want her to be as safe as possible. When you approach this conversation in an open and loving way, it’s more likely to go well.

Address Your Biggest Concerns First

During your talk, let your senior know what you’re most worried about. Has she had some accidents or near misses? How about some signs you have seen on the car that might indicate she’s had some issues while driving? Whatever your concerns are, make sure you don’t mince words about them. Be clear with her about what you have seen and noticed so you can find answers.

Work Out Some Compromises

Anytime that you can make compromises with your senior instead of laying out an ultimatum is better, and that’s especially true when you’re talking about something big like driving. Your elderly family member might agree that driving at night or during twilight is not great, for instance. Your compromise might be that she’ll let you or home care assistance drive for her during those times. Whatever your compromise is, make sure it actually addresses the concerns you both have.

When to Really Put Your Foot Down

Is there a time when you need to put your foot down and let your senior know that home care providers are her best option for transportation? There might just be. The truth is that you might be the only one to truly know when your senior absolutely shouldn’t drive any longer. Let her know before things get to that point, if at all possible. Encourage her to rely on home care assistance whenever she’s uncertain about her own ability to drive. If she’s still resisting, talk with her doctor about what you’re seeing.

Quitting driving is never an easy choice, and your elderly family member might be resisting as long as she possibly can. You can’t blame her for that, of course, but her safety is the most important factor.

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Home Care Assistance in Largo, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.