By Roz Jones
Assisting aging loved ones as they approach their driver’s test can be a complex journey for caregivers. Determining if a senior is ready to hold onto their driver’s license involves careful consideration of their safety and that of others on the road. Here are some crucial tips and warning signs to bear in mind as you navigate this crucial aspect of caregiving.
Recognizing Warning Signs
- Watch for repeated accidents, near misses, or getting lost in familiar places.
- Notice unexplained damages to the car, traffic violations, or declining vision and cognitive function affecting driving.
Empower Through Practice
- Encourage a driving refresher course or practice sessions with an instructor.
- Observe their driving skills closely for signs of struggle or disorientation.
Knowing When to Transition
- Identify consistent risky driving behaviors that pose safety risks.
- Initiate a compassionate conversation about alternative transportation options.
Additional Tips for Caregivers
- Encourage open dialogue about driving concerns without causing undue stress.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals to assess fitness for driving.
- Offer support and explore community resources for alternative transportation.
- Emphasize safety while preserving independence during the transition.
Remember, transitioning away from driving is about prioritizing safety without compromising independence. As caregivers, remain vigilant for warning signs and approach this sensitive topic with empathy and care. Safety always steers the course. Drive safely, everyone!
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Caregiving Is More than a One Child Affair
Flexibility, availability, and putting egos and family dynamics aside as much as possible are keys to successful caregiving – the kind that helps the individual who needs care – minimizes negative feelings, and often rebuilds or strengthens family relationships.
We continue our conversation with Dr. Herbert and in this episode, we talk about how caregiving is a family affair.
We highlight;
How to share the caregiving roles with family members
Transparency between the tension between family
Managing expectations while caring for family
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1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
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