Getting older is not just about the changes that happen to a person’s body or the health issues that they might face. Aging changes all aspects of a person’s life and can influence everything to which that person has become accustomed. As your parent’s family caregiver, it is critical that you not only recognize these changes when they need to happen, but that you can help your parent to cope with them in the way that is right for them and their quality of life.

Older Driver Safety Awareness is celebrated in December. If your aging parent is still driving, this is the ideal time for you to learn more about the potential risks that face older drivers and to work with your parent to determine if it is time for them to stop driving in order to stay safe, and to keep those around them safe as well.

Some things that you should know about senior driving safety include:

  • More than 40 million licensed drivers in the United States are over the age of 64
  • More than 236,000 older drivers have to seek medical treatment in the emergency room as a result of driving accidents each year
  • More than 5,700 older drivers die as a result of driving accidents each year
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that the risk for injury or death as a result of vehicle accidents increases with age
  • Cognitive functioning issues, memory problems, decreased reflexes, and diminished senses can all contribute to danger for older drivers

If you have been looking for ways to enhance your parent’s quality of life and ensure that they get the level of care, support, and assistance that they need to manage their individual needs, challenges, and limitations throughout their later years, now may be the ideal time to consider starting senior care. An in-home senior care services provider can create a highly personalized set of services designed specifically for your parent as an individual. This means that they will receive the care that is right for them based on their needs, beliefs, personality, preferences and goals. Through these services your parent can stay healthy, happy, safe, and comfortable, while also pursuing a lifestyle that is as active, independent, and fulfilling as possible as they age in place. For you as their family caregiver, this can give you peace of mind knowing that even when you need to focus your energy and attention on other aspects of your life, your parent is still getting what they need to live the highest quality of life possible.
https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/older_adult_drivers/index.html
https://www.aota.org/Conference-Events/Older-Driver-Safety-Awareness-Week.aspx

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Edina, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.