Having the Driving Discussion
Tough Conversations. Â Having the Discussion About Taking Away the Keys.
Though it’s a must-have conversation, talking with aging family members about taking away their car keys is very hard…on everyone. Â This is one discussion none of us are really trained or prepared to have. Â The reality is, though, that if we have aging loved ones in our life, we will most certainly face the time when this topic will need to be addressed. Â The good news is that we can learn from others.
DISCOVER
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When should you start having the conversations about driving?
How often do we need to have an older adult's driving assessed?
How do we begin these really hard discussions?
- Show honor and respect. Â Remember, roles are not reveresed. Â Your parents are your parents and deserve respect.
- Always give options. Â There’s usually more than one way to get to the same place of agreement.
- Adult kids tend to over-worry about their aging parents. Â As hard as it might be to do, we must remember to give older adults their space. Â Let them catch up to your concerns, think about it and then be a part of deciding how best to handle the situation. Â Now, if there is an immediate decline or serious issue that is life threatening, of course the experts agree to intervene as you see fit.
- Having the discussion is a gradual process.  Don’t expect it to be handled in a single conversation.
Watch this Short Video Featuring Families and Experts, Including Gail Sheehy, New York Times Bestselling Author on Caring for Older Adults
NOW WHAT?
Tools & Resources at Your Fingertips
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The Sensitive Discussion - Tips From Experts*
Watch AARP family issues expert Amy Goyer and “CBS This Morning” contributor Lee Woodruff talk about their personal experiences and tips for having the difficult conversation of stopping driving.  Â
Perspectives from Older Drivers
From the University of Calgary and the AMA Foundation for Traffic Safety, this video is one you could watch together with your family. Â Hear from doctors who specialize in older people (geriatrics) and family members. Â