Losing the ability to drive can challenge independent living for seniors
Are you worried that your elderly parent can no longer drive safely? This series of articles tells you what you can do, including:
- What the law says about elderly drivers.
- The process and implications of reporting an unsafe elderly driver.
- How driving skills are assessed for senior citizens.
- Can my loved one improve their skills and regain their driver’s license?
- How to talk to your elderly parent about driving.
- Dementia – what if my parent forgets they can’t drive?
- Life after driving.
For your elderly parent, losing the ability to drive can seem like the first sign that they are losing their freedom and independence and they may feel it will threaten their ability to age in place. But if your loved one has become unsafe behind the wheel they are a risk not only to themselves but to other people’s loved ones that are sharing the road with them.
What the Law Says About Elderly Drivers
Reporting Unsafe Drivers – Is it Confidential? What are the Implications?
(Note: this article addresses laws of the State of Virginia as of 2016. Your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can advise you about laws in other states and about changes to the law.)
In the State of Virginia the privilege to drive is based on ability, not age. The Department of Motor Vehicles requires license holders to meet standards of visual ability, level of consciousness, judgment and motor skills in addition to driving skills and knowledge.
If you feel that someone you know may have lost the physical or cognitive ability to be a safe driver, you can file a “Medical Review Request” with the DMV. As a result of the review the DMV may declare the driver as safe to drive with no limitations or it may revoke a license, restrict it to certain conditions, require additional training or adaptive equipment, or require re-evaluation in the future.
Also read:
- What the law says about elderly drivers.
- The process and implications of reporting an unsafe elderly driver.
- How driving skills are assessed for senior citizens.
- Can my loved one improve their skills and regain their driver’s license?
- How to talk to your elderly parent about driving.
- Dementia – what if my parent forgets they can’t drive?
- Life after driving.
Mother is 87 and just had,what she called, a “small accident”. Fortunately, she wasn’t injured too badly (bruises here & there…but that might not be the actual truth since she would never admit that there could be more to it).” Her hearing is essentially gone and refuses to wear her $5,500 hearing aid. I would appreciate any information, advice, age restriction facts, etc. that you could offer.
Thank you, Lynn Kunkel
Hi Lynn!
This is a tough one, and all too common!
Most people treasure their mobility and independence so much that they will overlook or hide the deficiencies that create danger for themselves and others.
First, look for ways your mom can have easy access to alternative transportation — friends, volunteers from her faith-based community, a professional companion agency, a contract with a taxi company. Make sure it is something that doesn’t require too much new learning or getting used to. This new service might also be able to help with other things: light housekeeping, companionship and access to social activities, checking in to be sure she is healthy and safe, etc.
Next, at least try to find a way for her to make her own decision to stop driving. This is often very difficult! You know your mom so you know what is most likely to motivate her to be safe. One way is to make the discussion about your worry rather than her deficiency. Tell her that you would never forgive yourself if stood aside while she got behind the wheel, and she later injured or killed someone else’s mother, spouse, or child. Ask her to make the transition as a special gift to you.
If that doesn’t work, suggest to her doctor that he have the driving discussion with her.
If none of that works, check the DMV laws in your state to understand the process of reporting unsafe drivers.
Good luck, and may your mom thrive even if she can’t drive!