{"id":1324,"date":"2016-12-28T19:26:40","date_gmt":"2016-12-28T19:26:40","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/assistinghands.com\/6\/?p=1324"},"modified":"2016-12-28T19:26:40","modified_gmt":"2016-12-28T19:26:40","slug":"give-car-keysor-get-new-car","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/6\/newjersey\/centralnj\/blog\/give-car-keysor-get-new-car\/","title":{"rendered":"Give Up the Car Keys\u2026Or Get a New Car?"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Medical conditions such as arthritis, dementia, hearing loss, visual impairment\u2014and even some of the normal changes of aging, such as slower reaction time and decreased manual dexterity\u2014can mean that it\u2019s no longer safe for a senior to drive.<\/p>\n

Yet many seniors are very good drivers, having gained experience and savvy during years on the road. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), 36 million American seniors are still behind the wheel. Our aging population means that number will rise. Driving helps keep these seniors independent and active in the community, and they are right to worry about what giving up the keys will mean. It might be unsafe for them to drive long before they\u2019re ready to cut back on their activities\u2014including employment, volunteer work and other destinations. Studies also suggest that driving cessation puts a senior at higher risk for depression, isolation and even financial insecurity.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s important to be prepared to transition to being a non driver. Learn about alternative transportation solutions well ahead of need. And have a sound strategy for making the decision as to whether driving is still safe. If you\u2019re not sure, talking to your doctor is the first step. You can also get an evaluation from a certified driver rehabilitation specialist (typically, an occupational therapist).<\/p>\n

To help extend a senior\u2019s driving years, senior driving specialists often recommend a refresher driver\u2019s ed training especially for older adults. These courses are available through AAA<\/a>, AARP<\/a> and elsewhere.<\/p>\n

And here\u2019s something many seniors and families fail to consider: According to AAA, when seniors are experiencing driving problems, their car might be a big part of the problem. Be sure the car is in good repair. Add safety features, such as better mirrors and windshield wipers.<\/p>\n

Even more to the point, is the car a good fit for the driver\u2019s abilities? AAA offers a free online evaluation with the AAA \u201cFind the Right Vehicle for You\u201d<\/a> feature.<\/p>\n

Some seniors resist trading in their old, familiar vehicle. They might feel intimidated by some of the high-tech features of today\u2019s automobiles. How do you start it without a key? What are all those dashboard displays\u2014this looks like the cockpit of a 747! But once they get used to these new technologies, they quickly realize that some of the safety gadgets of today seem like they were specially designed for the needs of senior drivers!<\/p>\n

AAA recommends these features in particular:<\/p>\n