What to do when it comes time to hang up the car keys for good? Older adults and their families often wrestle with this. Public transportation — especially senior and disabled-friendly transportation — is limited and inadequate.
Having the conversation
Some tips:
- Most impaired older adults voluntarily limit their driving and, if necessary, quit altogether. They may stop driving at night, avoid the freeways, avoid rush hours, stick to familiar territory. However, if you get into a battle over it and are concerned about safety, get out of the middle — bring in a trusted third party, such as family doctor, to help move the conversation forward.
- Look for a local driver assessment, driver education, or driver safety programs.
- Explore other transportation options.
- Talk to Council on Aging about in-home care programs that provide transportation. Call: (513) 721-1025