How do you know when a loved one is no longer fit to drive, and what should you do?
Signs that the older driver might be having trouble:
• Gets lost in familiar areas.
• Gets new dents or scratches on the car.
• Seems overwhelmed by signs and road markings.
• Drives too slowly or stops at inappropriate times.
• Takes medication, particularly multiple medications, that might affect driving.
• Suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, other forms of dementia, vision loss, arthritis, diabetes or another illness.
How to address a potential problem:
• Take a ride with the older driver. Offering specific observations about their driving, rather than general opinions, can make the conversation less emotional.
• Encourage a hearing or vision test.
• Suggest a safety class geared toward older drivers.
• Consider limiting driving to daylight hours and good weather while avoiding highways and busy areas.