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Sep
2010

Over the Hills We Went - Driving with Grandma

Have you ever driven on a road with steep hills that come to an abrupt point and then drop off just as quick on the other side? If so, you know that roller coaster feeling you get in your stomach when you're weightless for those few moments. That's the road from my Grandma's house to the small town she would often drive us to as kids. We would say "faster, faster" and I swear we left the ground, but at the age of 6 and 7 I didn't have a care. I'm sure we were only doing the speed limit but it felt like we were flying.

My Grandma was only 62 at the time, but I remember something else on those trips, the 2-way stop to cross the highway. With trucks and cars all going 55+ and my elderly grandma looking both ways, then punching the pedal to floor to get across quick. I remember that scared feeling just as much as the joy of going over those hills. I guess I didn't mind the fun stuff, but when it got serious, I wondered if my Grandma had what it took to get across the road safely. I guess my mom or her sisters had determined Grandma was capable of making it there and back with my brothers. I suspect many of you may find yourself doing the same assessment today. Can Mom or Dad continue to drive themselves safely?

It is important to remember that the freedom of driving is about as American as you can get. It's in our blood and you can't take it away without a fight! I suggest bringing up the subject carefully and with some supportive material. Plan on the first conversation being heated, but know that a second one has to occur, so stay calm. Address that your concern is not only for them but for others as well. A good starting point is to have a regular drive time scheduled using their car. Often a hired caregiver can double as chauffeur; this allows for some maintained freedom but keeps things safe. The AARP site "We Need to Talk" provides you with a wealth of information about the discussion of driving and elderly parents. Keep in mind they remember those moments on the hills as well, they were smiling and laughing along the way, driving is freedom, driving is fun. Help make driving safe by talking to your elderly parent.

Jeff Salter
CEO, Caring Senior Service

Tags: Caring Senior Service, Elderly Driving, Healthy Aging, Jeff Salter, Senior Driving, Senior Living Comments: 0

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