It can be challenging to have a conversation about driving less with a loved one, particularly if they place a high value on their independence. However, changes in medical conditions, vision, response time, and more require the conversation to occur at some point. The good news is that there are ways to handle this delicate subject and options to introduce that help seniors maintain freedom, such as adding companion care at home services to their support team.
Have the Conversation Early
As with most difficult conversations, it is preferable to tackle the issue sooner rather than later, especially if loved ones are concerned the issue might get out of hand. Also, by bringing it up early, loved ones will have time to get used to the concept.
Family members may start out by talking about a recent occurrence or a concern they’ve had. In doing so, it’s better to use facts rather than feelings. In other words, before having the conversation, it’s a good idea to have evidence that an issue is pending in the first place. This could be a recent vision appointment that showed a decrease in visual ability or noticing that seniors aren’t reacting as quickly as they once did.
Initiating the conversation early on also gives seniors greater control over the exchange, which may ease their defensiveness.
Show Compassion and Understanding
It’s important to recognize that driving is a symbol of independence and signifies more than just going from point A to point B. With this in mind, family members should approach the conversation with compassion.
Include Seniors in the Decision-Making Process
Including seniors in the decision-making process is important rather than giving orders. This can be accomplished by exploring their feelings about the issue. If seniors believe their thoughts and feelings are being considered, they might be more receptive to hearing other sides of the conversation.
Also, it might be beneficial to take smaller steps toward the end goal if possible. For instance, family members and seniors might agree to restricted driving—possibly only during the day—instead of jumping to no driving at all right away.
Explore the Benefits of Companion Care at Home
Companion care at home might be a great option for seniors who want to preserve their independence. A companion care at home caregiver can help ensure seniors remain active and involved in their community by providing transportation for errands, social events, and appointments. In addition to meeting mobility needs, this kind of care offers company, which can reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation.
In addition to helping with transportation, companion care at home can also help with daily tasks like meal preparation, light housekeeping, and more, providing an additional layer of assistance that prolongs seniors’ independence rather than reducing it. This helps ensure that seniors can have the same quality of life without the risks of driving.
One of the main concerns seniors have when losing the ability to drive is the loss of independence. Loved ones should reassure seniors that this change is meant to put their safety and well-being first, not an attempt to take their freedom from them. In doing so, it’s important to validate their feelings and remind them they will remain in control.
Approaching a loved one about driving less is a delicate process that requires preparation, understanding, and sensitivity. Still, if loved ones have a plan in mind, such as adding companion care at home services, seniors will see the advantages they may gain rather than focus on the negative.
If you or an aging loved one needs Companion Care at Home in Davis, CA, contact A Better Living Home Care today (916) 514-7006
Sources:
- https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/safe-driving-older-adults
- https://www.helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia-aging/how-aging-affects-driving.htm
- https://agesafeamerica.com/safe-driving-for-seniors-a-complete-guide/
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