Is It Time to Take the Car Keys from Your Loved One?

Is your elderly loved one struggling to drive the car safely? Since many seniors try to keep this fact hidden for as long as possible, it is possible that you might not even be aware of it at first. After all, most people are reluctant to give up the feeling of independence that comes with being able to drive anywhere they want at any time of the day or night, so your loved one might try to keep something like this a secret. Unfortunately, if you've noticed certain signs that their driving skills aren't as good as they used to be, it might be time to take the car keys from your loved one.

What Are the Challenges Faced by Elderly Drivers?

Older drivers often experience problematic issues that can make it more difficult for them to drive safely. These challenges include:

. Failing eyesight

. Disorientation

. Hearing loss

. Slower reflexes

. Severe arthritis

What Signs Should You Look for to Assess Your Elderly Loved One's Driving Ability?

If you've noticed any of the following, it is possible that your senior loved one is having difficulty driving:

. New scratches on the vehicle

. Dents or creases on the doors of the car

. Scratches, creases, or dents on the fender or bumper of the car

If your loved one is experiencing difficulty driving, parking might also be a problem. Look to see how well the car is parked once your parent or older relative is finished driving it. If the car isn't aligned properly with the curb or painted lines of a parking lot, your senior might be having difficulty seeing.

If your loved one is beginning to experience physical problems that might affect their ability to drive safely, you should look for signs that this is happening. Older people who have difficulty seeing, moving, or hearing might also be having problems driving. If you notice scratches or dents on the car's exterior, it is probably time to look more closely at your loved one's driving skills.