The ability to drive provides freedom and independence. However, age-related conditions such as macular degeneration and dementia can make driving less safe for some seniors. Your elderly relative may not want to give up this freedom easily, but you may need to take away your loved one’s keys if you suspect he or she is driving unsafely. The staff at Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care in Mississauga, has put together a list of warning signs to watch for.
If He or She Repeatedly Gets Lost
Since people frequently drive near their homes and other familiar places, it can be a troubling sign if your loved one is starting to get lost while driving in these areas. Nobody likes to admit failure in cognitive abilities, which means your loved one admitting to getting lost may be a serious warning sign his or her ability to drive safely is decreasing.
If You Notice Damage to His or Her Car
Driving requires solid vision and quick reaction skills, but both of these can start to diminish as your loved one ages. Driving without peak skills puts everyone on the road in danger. One way to determine if your loved one is having trouble driving is by examining his or her car. If you regularly see new dents and scrapes, then it may be time to talk to your loved one about other transportation options, such as hiring a Mississauga caregiver to drive him or her to important appointments and events.
If There Is a Change in His or Her Driving Habits
Even when seniors know their driving skills are decreasing, they usually will not admit it to anyone else. If your loved one is starting to question his or her own driving skills, then you may see a dramatic change in his or her driving habits as well. Not wanting to drive at night and stressing while driving are two key signs to look for.
If He or She Is Getting Traffic Tickets More Frequently
While your loved one may be able to hide his or her poor driving from you, hiding it from the police may be more difficult. An increase in traffic tickets and warnings is a major sign your loved one is becoming a danger on the road.
Though driving equals freedom for many seniors, it still needs to be done safely. If your loved one is facing age-related challenges but still wants to remain independent, a part-time caregiver can help. At Home Care Assistance, our caregivers can provide transportation for medical appointments and prescription pick-ups, errands like grocery shopping, social events, and much more. We also offer live-in care and specialized Parkinson’s, dementia, and stroke care Mississauga seniors can rely on. For more information on our senior care services and to schedule a free consultation with one of our friendly Care Managers, call 905-337-1200 today.