You might be tempted to take your loved one’s keys and ban her from driving altogether. But that’s a good way to keep your loved one fighting for a measure of independence. A better idea is to gradually phase driving out of your loved one’s day.

Gradually Work Down to Shorter and Shorter Trips

Limiting how far and how long your loved one is driving is a simple way to start putting limits on her overall driving. Shorter trips are less likely to cause a problem for her than longer trips might. Your loved one might find that her attention wanders more during longer trips, making driving more difficult.

Stick to Roads Your Loved One Knows Extremely Well

Trying new routes might make for more interesting trips, but it can also create problems for your loved one. If she has difficulty navigating on her own, your loved one is better served by sticking to routes that she knows quite well. It can help if you and your loved one plot out her trips before she ventures out.

Limit Driving at Night

Nighttime driving can be difficult for your loved one for a variety of reasons. If her night vision is bad, she may be a hesitant driver or she might be more likely to collide with something. Some elderly loved ones aren’t comfortable driving at night, either. Make sure that if your loved one does need to go somewhere after dark that she has other options.

Avoid Heavy Traffic Spots and Times of Day

The heavier that traffic is, the more likely your loved one can be to end up in an accident. She may also wind up more frustrated with driving due to heavy traffic. That frustration can cause her to make mistakes while driving.

Limit Driving During Bad Weather

Bad weather can be as difficult to manage as nighttime driving or heavy traffic. Limiting your loved one’s likelihood of driving during bad weather can help to keep her much safer behind the wheel. Keeping tabs on weather reports can make this easier for you and your loved one.

If your loved one needs to go somewhere during one of the times that her driving is limited, make sure she has another option. Elderly care providers, other family members, and even neighbors can all fit into your loved one’s transportation plan.

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Elderly Care in Largo, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.