This article discusses the sensitive topic of how to know when it’s time to relinquish the car keys once people realize they are no longer able to drive safely.
As we age, we may start dreading the eventual “driving discussion” our children may feel obligated to have with us, especially if there is an onset of dementia. This conversation is especially likely once a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment has been made.
No one looks forward to giving up the independence and mobility that comes with driving. But how can you know when it’s the right time to consider giving up the keys?
Assess whether you have visual-spatial issues, slower reaction times, bad peripheral vision and confusion about the rules of the road. Are you inadvertently driving too close to people and objects? Are you noticing more scratches and dents on your car? If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor. It may be a simple, fixable issue, like needing a new eyeglass prescription, but you won’t know unless you ask.
If you are questioning your ability to drive safely, consider the legal and financial ramifications to you and your family of keeping your keys and continuing to drive. In the event of an accident, you could be liable for any property damage. Worse, you could severely injury yourself or others.
If you are concerned about your driving ability, discuss this with your family members. Your children have your best interests at heart, but it’s better for you to be in control of the conversation. Be honest about your feelings of loss of independence and mobility. Your family may be able to devise solutions to help you continue to enjoy your independence while giving up the keys. The solution may be to hire someone to take you doctors’ appointments and to run errands. It could mean setting you up with a ride-sharing service like Lyft or Uber. If you lack physical mobility, you might also be eligible for Able-Ride, a door-to-door bus service for people with disabilities.
With a little planning, giving up the car keys doesn’t have to mean giving up independence.
This article appeared in the July 2024 issue of Stroll Lloyd Harbor.
