Knowing When to Give Up the Keys
One of the most difficult family discussions has to be the one around older adults and driving. Concerned children worry about their aging paren'ts being injured, or causing injury to others, in a collision. Older drivers fear the loss of independence that results from giving up their driver's licences.
The good news is that there are strategies to help older drivers continue driving safely and comfortably well into their senior years.
On Wednesday September 25, the North York Central Library is presenting a talk by Certified Driver Rehab Specialist Shirley Rolin. She will discuss how older drivers can reduce risk factors and use adaptive equipment and safe driving practices to keep driving longer and more safely. She will also discuss the warning signs to watch for and how to decide when it's time to give up the keys.
Ms. Rolin's website provides links to some great resources for senior drivers.
Here are a couple of others:
SeniorDriving.aaa.com has tools to help evaluate driving ability, understand the physical and mental changes that can affect driving, and choose vehicles and features that will improve comfort and safety behind the wheel.
The Driving Resource Center on the AARP website has resources for older drivers, including interactive driving simulations, a drug interaction tool and simple exercises to help maintain mobility behind the wheel.
Whether you're an older driver hoping to keep your licence for as long as possible or a concerned family member or friend, Knowing When to Give Up the Keys will provide information and strategies to tackle this difficult issue.
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