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With people living longer than ever before, there are many senior citizens on the roadways. Most of them still have the skills and reflexes they need to be safe drivers, but there are a few that are simply a danger on the road. But how do you talk to your parents, grandparents or some other elderly driving about giving up their used cars? Here are some tips you can use to make the situation less stressful.
1. Begin a discussion by asking what they think about proposed legislation that requires mandatory retesting for drivers reaching a certain age.
2. Express your concern and worry in a non-confrontational manner. Say things like “I worry about you on the road with other drivers” and other “I” phrases.
3. Don’t do it alone. Bring other family members or friends who are concerned about their driving, too.
4. Offer other alternatives to driving their used cars. Mention any mass transportation possibilities, taxis and services specially designed for elderly people to show you have put a lot of thought into the discussion.
5. Ask if you can go to the doctor with them so you can discuss their driving skills and reflexes all together.
Even with these tips, asking an elderly person to give up their used cars after driving for 50 or 60 years is going to be difficult. But it may be necessary to keep them and others safe on the roadways.