Many seniors stay mobile, lead active lifestyles, and continue driving well into old age. However, if you notice that your elderly loved one starts to develop certain issues, it might not be safe for them to get behind the wheel. Here's when elderly care professionals recommend that your aging friend or family member stop driving. 

4 Signs Your Senior Loved One Shouldn't Drive

1. Unsafe Driving Habits

If elderly people develop bad habits behind the wheel, it might not be safe for them to continue driving. For instance, if they have a tendency to tailgate or drift into neighboring lanes of traffic, they may have a greater risk of getting into an accident. Other behaviors that can compromise safety on the roads include slow reaction times and becoming easily distracted. Hiring a senior care service to provide transportation may safely get your loved one to and from destinations. 

2. Vision Problems

Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are eye problems that often develop during old age. These conditions may cause blurry or fuzzy vision, loss of central vision, and difficulty seeing at night. If your elderly friend or family member has any of these issues, they might not have the ability to see the roads clearly. Seeking professional transportation from an elderly care service can prevent collisions and promote safety. 

3. Impaired Hearing

Hearing loss is common with age and often occurs as a result of heart conditions, high blood pressure, and diabetes. If your senior loved one has difficulty hearing traffic noises, such as car horns or emergency vehicle sirens, they might not get out of the way in time, increasing the risk of accidents and problems on the road. Additionally, they may not hear their own vehicle's warning sounds, such as beeping when a door is open or unusual engine noises, which can diminish safety. Elderly people with hearing loss should ride with friends, family, or professional drivers to get to stores, pharmacies, and doctor's appointments. 

4. Cognitive Changes

Dementia and Alzheimer's disease commonly affect seniors. These conditions often cause significant cognitive impairment, including forgetfulness and poor judgment, making it difficult to safely operate a vehicle. If you notice cognitive changes in your aging loved one, they might need a professional who specializes in dementia or Alzheimer's care to start driving them from place to place. 

If your elderly loved one can no longer drive, contact Family United Home Health Care. They provide transportation services and in-home care, including assistance with the activities of daily living, to seniors throughout Pagedale, MO. Call (314) 716-3100 to book an appointment for an in-home elderly care assessment, and visit the website to learn more about how their senior care services can help your aging friend or family member live their best life.