Elderly Drivers Can Pose a Challenge for Concerned Family

Published: Oct. 11, 2020, 6 p.m.

We all know the cliches about elderly drivers. As we age many of us experience diminished function. It may be vision, hearing, response time or even cognitive ability. The aging driver can be a concern for family members and the community. This week our podcast episode deals with the elderly driver and how to plan for (and respond to) diminishing capability. We often hear from our clients that they will know when to stop driving. But that's not what we often hear from family members. In fact, the elderly family member often hasn't recognized the need to stop driving. Much of the problem with elderly drivers comes down to a lack of alternatives. In a society so dependent on auto travel, there may be few choices for getting to the doctor, shopping and other necessary travel. But anticipating the need for alternatives AND the possibility of diminished capacity can help your family deal with what may develop.