Five Things to Ask During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

The first week of December marks Older Driver Safety Awareness Week. Many drivers keep driving past the age of 70 or 80 and do so safely. Some shouldn’t be driving and end up in accidents. It’s important to have a discussion about driving safely as you age. Ask these five questions during a family chat.

Home Care Services in Riverhead NY: Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

Have They Had An Accident Lately?

Have your parents had accidents? If so, what was the cause? If it’s a situation they couldn’t avoid, such as black ice, they could still be safe drivers. If your mom drove through the garage door because she hit the gas instead of the brakes, that’s a problem to address.

You can go to the DMV and ask if there are classes for older drivers. If the accident was minor, a refresher driving lesson may be all that’s needed.

What Does the Doctor Say?

Talk to your mom and dad’s doctor about their flexibility and reaction times. Reaction times are important when you’re behind the wheel. They need to be able to turn their head both ways while checking blind spots. They need to react quickly to sudden obstacles like a car that doesn’t stop at a stop sign or a child that runs out.

When Was the Last Eye Exam?

When did your mom and dad last have their vision checked? If they’re going to drive, they need to undergo regular eye exams. If their prescription changes, they need to get new glasses or contacts. If they’re diagnosed with a condition like cataracts and told not to drive at night, make sure they follow that rule.

What Medications Are Your Parents Taking?

What prescription drugs do your parents take? Some have side effects that recommend not driving or using machinery after taking the medication. Others have side effects like dizziness and drowsiness. If your parents have medications with those warnings, they shouldn’t drive.

Have You Driven With Them?

Have you driven with your parents? You should. See if they brake in time, fully check blind spots, and always scan for obstacles. Do they adjust their seat and mirror correctly? Do they stay in their lane or do they drift? You’ll get a good idea if they’re driving safely.

What are your options when your parents are no longer able to drive? You and other family members could take days off to be their driver. A better option is to arrange home care services from a local agency. Home care aides help with everything from household chores and meals to grooming and transportation.

If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring Home Care Services in Riverhead, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.