Elderly Drivers ? When Should They Put Down Their Keys?

As you or a loved one ages you may find it is harder to see, hear and maybe even get around. None of these things can prevent you from driving until they get really bad. A persons coordination and reflexes has a lot to do with safe driving. As the motor skills begin to decline so can your reaction time. Reaction time can also be effected by certain medical conditions or medications. It is important to ask the doctor about you or a loved one?s ability to drive after each hospital stay. Usually it will be just a few short days until the strength and endurance have improved. Other times there could be a significant medical change such as a stroke or serious heart condition that may keep someone from being safe behind the wheel.

Even if you or your loved one have not been ill you may consider going to see the doctor if you are noticing some of the following things.

- Getting lost in familiar areas.
- Driving inappropriate speeds.
- Not noticing mechanical things wrong with the car.
- Having more difficulty driving at night or in the rain.
- Drifting into other lanes due to poor concentration.
- Trouble with depth perception and stopping to closely.
- Not stopping or yielding to traffic.
- Asking others if they should go, pass or change lanes.
- Responding slowly to traffic.
- Having more near misses or fender benders.
- Forgetting to put on wipers, lights or turn signals.
- Difficulty with turning your head,neck or trunk.

Some of these problems can be solved by just going to see a doctor. For example have your vision and hearing checked. See your primary doctor for a physical to look at coordination and reflexes. Having the doctor or pharmacist look over your medications to see if they are interacting in a way that is reducing reaction time, concentration or coordination. Changes can also be made by driving only during the day to familiar places and leaving your self enough time to get places.

There is also an Association for Driver Rehabilitation. They give referrals to professionals that are trained to help keep people on the road. The local police department and motor vehicle administration are also good places to inquire about driving and the elderly. Hopefully these few tips will help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

My name is Lynn Hoyle. I have been working in the health care business for over 25 years now. I have specialized in elderly care as a physical therapist. I have worked in hospitals, skilled nursing homes and home health. You can read more of my articles that pertain to the elderly and their families on my blog page, http://www.elderlycaretoday.com/

Source: http://www.womenfavor.com/home-and-family/elder-care/elderly-drivers-when-should-they-put-down-their-keys.html

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