Last week, we wrote about how sometimes the difficult decision about taking away the keys from an elderly driver needs to be made for their safety and that of others. This is still a decision that needs to be made in many situations, but we thought it would be helpful to display an opposing viewpoint, in terms of being fair to everyone.
There is new data that indicates that when senior citizens stop driving, they may end up facing worsening health problems and may even have shorter life expectancies. It should be quite obvious that this is not something that anyone would want to do to a loved one, so looking at this in a bit more detail is a good idea. Seniors driving is a hot topic in the elder care community, and if we can handle this sensitive subject with dignity and respect, we will be doing our loved ones a very big favor.
First, it looks like the study focused on independence, and driving is a big representation of this. It also looks like the loss of independence had a negative impact on both physical and mental health, both of which can lead to higher mortality rates. This is why the researchers advised that when it is time to take the keys away, there are measures put in place to make sure that health levels are maintained. Having a plan that will keep mobility levels and social lives active are an easy way to make sure that the blow given by the loss of an ability to drive isn’t a knockout punch. The goal is to keep our loved ones safe without making them deteriorate healthwise. If driving is no longer safe, it is our job to help them compensate for this with other activities.
There are things that you can do to prevent this. Sometimes, taking the car keys away is a must. But that doesn’t mean that you need to take away your loved one’s independence. There are many things that can be done to help here, but what it comes down to is that you need to take a look at your loved one’s wants and needs with them and come up with a solution together. Many seniors do not actually have an overwhelming desire to drive, but rather they want the freedom that comes along with it. They want to be able to get out of the house when they want to and not feel trapped in their lives. Things like adult daycares, senior groups, going to see friends or family, or just going out to a coffee shop or a park are all things that can help fight this feeling. Having independence around their house can also help. If a nursing home can be avoided, it should be. This is where in-home care separates itself as a superior form of senior care. It keeps seniors in their own homes, and it allows them to maintain more independence as a result. It’s not right for everyone, but it can help far more than currently are receiving it now.
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