If you have started to worry about your parent’s safety behind the wheel, you’re not alone. With age, changes in vision, reaction time, memory, and physical ability can make driving more difficult and dangerous for older adults.

While the topic may feel uncomfortable or intimidating, it’s an important one to address. Here are some telltale signs it may be time for your senior loved one to stop driving—and tips for starting the conversation with care.

Signs to Look For

Your senior loved one’s driving ability can change gradually over time or appear suddenly. It may be time to reassess their driving if they are showing any of these signs:

Frequent close calls or minor accidents

Have you noticed scrapes on the car or garage, dents, or unexplained damage? This can indicate trouble with judgment or awareness.

Getting lost on familiar routes

Your loved one may be experiencing early dementia or memory problems if they are frequently forgetting how to drive to the grocery store, medical appointments, or home from other familiar destinations.

Confusion in traffic

Hesitating at intersections or misunderstanding right-of-way rules can put your loved one and other drivers or pedestrians at risk. Any signs of slower response time may indicate it’s time to hand over the keys.

Difficulty staying in the lane

Drifting or frequent lane changes without signaling can be a major red flag that your parent shouldn’t be driving a car.

Health issues affecting driving

Vision loss, hearing decline, arthritis, and certain medications can impair driving skills. Talk to your loved one’s doctor if any of these are concerning you and their ability to drive safely.

Complaints from others

If your friends, family, or neighbors express concern about your loved one’s driving, take their feedback seriously and pay close attention to their driving habits.

Reluctance or nervousness about driving

If your parent seems more nervous or easily overwhelmed, they may no longer feel comfortable on the road or behind the wheel of a car.

What to Do if You’re Concerned

Talking to a parent about giving up the keys can be challenging and emotional—for both of you. Here are a few tips:

Start the conversation early

Don’t wait for an injury or accident to occur. Bring up the topic gently and listen to their feedback or concerns.

Use specific examples

Point to recent incidents that raised concern, such as recurring fender benders, rather than making general statements.

Involve their doctor

A trusted healthcare provider may help reinforce your concerns and recommend a driving assessment.

Offer alternatives

Help your parent maintain their independence with reliable transportation options, whether it’s family or senior transportation services.

We’re Here to Support Your Family

At Kauhale Centerville, we understand how challenging this transition can be for families and their senior loved one. Remember, acting now can prevent serious accidents and keep your parent safe.

At Kauhale, we offer:

• Safe and convenient transportation services for medical appointments, errands, and outings
• Supportive staff available around-the-clock to help residents adjust to lifestyle changes
• Resources for families navigating safety concerns and long-term care planning

Have questions or want to learn more about how we support our residents’ independence? Contact Kauhale Centerville today to schedule a tour.