Driving is an important way that elderly adults can maintain their independence. But age-related decline of the physical body and regression in visual and cognitive functioning can have a negative effect on driving abilities.

Fortunately, caregivers can play an important role in mitigating the safety risks associated with driving that elderly adults face. That’s why caregivers should encourage their elderly parents or clients to have their vision tested at least once a year, as well as checking with health care providers to review any prescription or over-the-counter drugs that could impair a senior’s ability to drive.

Older drivers should also be encouraged to minimize risks by planning their route ahead of time, driving during daytime and good weather and, to avoid distractions while driving, like talking on the phone, texting or eating.

Older adults can maintain community mobility, even if driving is no longer an option.

No matter how many safeguards you put in place, however, there may come a time when it is no longer safe for your parent or client to be behind the wheel. This can be a difficult moment to accept among seniors and, as a caregiver, can lead to very difficult conversations.

To make the process easier, begin by emphasizing that their safety is your primary concern, focus on the fact that it is not their fault, and remind them that there are alternatives, such as transportation services for elderly and disabled adults. All of these can be used to help them maintain their independence and stay healthy.

Helpful resources

Need to have a conversation transportation alternatives with an elderly adult? Here are helpful resources to offer them if they can no longer drive.

• Department of HHS Eldercare Transportation Options; 800-677-1116; eldercare.gov
• State of Minnesota’s Senior LinkAge Line; 800-333-2433; mnaging.org
• Independent Transportation Network of America; itnamerica.org

About thrive. “Let’s talk about driving,” was first captured in the Spring 2017 edition of thrive., a health and wellness newsletter from Blue Plus especially for Platinum Blue^SM members and their caregivers. The Spring 2017 issue, along with past issues, are available at bluecrossmn.com/PlatinumBluethrive.